Development of MOOC in Scientific Methodology at the Fiocruz Virtual Campus

Abstract

This case study is divided into three parts: a bibliographic survey to support the development and implementation of the second stage; an online course, at distance, of Instrumental Scientific Methodology, using the resources provided by the Moodle platform of Fiocruz’s Virtual Campus; and, finally, an investigation of the quality of this course, carried out with its students. The problem that motivated this research, that is, its guiding question, focused on how to develop and offer a course in Scientific Methodology for people who are unable to attend presential classes. The general objective of this research was to provide contributions for the improvement of distance education courses. The methodology chosen to support this study was the quantitative and qualitative, explanatory approach, presenting the main resources used in the virtual learning environment. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires to all who completed the course, and based on data analysis two tables were compiled: one with suggestions for improvements for future versions of this course; and another with thematic suggestions for new courses that may be developed by our institution. Also, some priority points were highlighted that require special attention in the development of a distance course, such as issues related to technological matters, media, pedagogical dimension, interaction, and tutoring. The initial objective of this study was achieved, as a pilot model of a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) was created, in addition to evaluating its quality and collecting suggestions for improvement of future versions.