Massive open online courses and micro-courses are two main forms of modern distance education, which are different in teaching content, learning mode and usage scenarios.

1. Definition and characteristics:

Massive open network course: Massive open network course is a large-scale open network course based on Internet platform. Massive open online courses are usually provided by well-known universities or educational institutions, and students learn independently through the network and obtain credits or certificates.

Micro-course: Micro-course is a short and pithy course, which usually lasts for a short time and covers specific knowledge points or skills. Micro-courses can quickly deliver teaching content and are suitable for various learning scenarios, such as online learning platforms and mobile applications.

2. Learning mode:

Massive open online courses: Massive open online courses adopt autonomous learning mode. Students can choose courses according to their own learning progress and interests, and they can study anytime and anywhere. Massive open online courses usually have a complete curriculum system, teaching videos, homework and exams.

Micro-lessons: Micro-lessons are usually presented in the form of short videos, with short time (usually between a few minutes and ten minutes), concentrated content and emphasis on intensive lectures. Students can choose knowledge points that they are interested in or need to improve according to their own needs.

3. Content demonstration:

Massive open online courses: Massive open online courses usually consist of a whole set of courses, including several chapters or units. Each chapter has detailed teaching resources, such as teaching videos, handouts and exercises. Massive open online courses are rich in content and can cover a complete knowledge system of a subject.

Micro-lesson: Micro-lesson presents the teaching content in a concise and vivid way, and each micro-lesson usually only explains a specific knowledge point or skill. Micro-courses focus on the analysis of key and difficult points in simple terms to help students master knowledge quickly.

4. Teaching methods:

Massive open network courses: Massive open network courses are usually taught by video explanation combined with online interaction. Students gain knowledge by watching teaching videos and participating in online discussions, and evaluate their learning by completing homework and exams. In large-scale open online courses, there will also be tutors or teaching assistants to provide learning support.

Micro-courses: Micro-courses are generally presented in an independent way, and students can learn independently through online learning platforms or mobile applications. The learning progress and time of micro-courses are more free, and students can watch and study repeatedly to consolidate their knowledge.

5. Use scenario:

Massive open online courses: Massive open online courses are suitable for the distance education needs of a large number of groups, especially for students with certain self-learning ability and time planning ability. Massive open online courses are usually opened on the online learning platform for large-scale students, which has high publicity and universality.

Micro-course: Micro-course is suitable for learning needs of quickly acquiring knowledge points in a short time, such as studying between work and business trip. Micro-courses are usually provided in mobile applications, which is convenient for students to study anytime and anywhere.

To sum up, massive open online courses and micro-courses are important forms of distance education. Massive open online courses, suitable for long-term systematic learning and comprehensive knowledge system; Micro-courses are suitable for the needs of quickly acquiring specific knowledge points or skills. Different learners can choose their own learning methods according to their own time, interests and needs.