It could well be – but I have a feeling that it there would be more US participants whatever the time of year. Would be interesting tho to compare if it runs again.

Sheila

I’m wondering, though, if your comment re. it being mostly US participants is related to the fact here in the UK, we’re right in the middle of the summer break (and everyone was glued to the telly yesterday!) whereas in the US, they’re already starting to head back; don’t their terms start somewhat earlier than English ones (both at School and University level)?

Thanks for your response, you raise some great points. I think to an extent MOOCs do deliberately put more responsibility on the learner, particularly the ones that hark to the original MOOCs from Downes, Siemens et al. They are for more sophisticated learners and despite my self deprecating remarks I know that I can network effectively and deal with troublesome knowledge. But for most undergrads or people returning to education I share your concerns. The massive be be appealing and provide enough people who want to take the final test (and so give a commercial return) but what about the masses who drop out? I can afford to be philosophical about my MOOC engagement and successes/failures as I’m not relying on them for anything in particular.