Extending the reach of online learning

The University of Melbourne is expanding the reach of its open online learning programs by partnering with the UK-based social learning platform FutureLearn.

Announcing the new partnership, Professor Gregor Kennedy, Pro Vice- Chancellor (Teaching and Learning), said: “We are excited to be joining FutureLearn. We believe our partnership will provide opportunities for a new group of learners to experience our high-quality educational offerings.”

The University entered the MOOC (massive open online course) space five years ago through the Coursera network. Its partnership with FutureLearn will help diversify the University’s open learning platforms, allowing it to continue to offer exemplary online education worldwide.

FutureLearn is a private company wholly owned by Britain’s Open University, with the benefit of more than 40 years’ experience in distance learning and online education. It has more than 130 global partners including many of the best UK and international universities, as well as institutions with a huge archive of cultural and educational material, such as the British Council, the British Library and the British Museum, as well as the UK’s National Film and Television School.