OpenCourseWare and Open Educational Resources: Forward to Credentialed Learning Outcomes?

Abstract

OpenCourseWare (OCW), one part of Open Educational Resources (OER), is now past its first decade. Phenomenal growth has occurred in the first ten years and entering into the next phase of development there is now a movement to officially credential OCW experiences with certificates. This paper will explore the potential of this future movement and the possible implications for lifelong learning.