TALLAHASSEE — It's the latest trend in education and it's coming soon to a school near you.
But what exactly is a MOOC?
On Thursday, Florida lawmakers got schooled on massive open online courses, or MOOCs.
The concept is being tested in Pinellas, Miami-Dade and Broward counties, and will likely be expanding across the state.
MOOCs are virtual classes that allow unlimited enrollment.
Students watch recorded lectures and move through the material at their own pace. They typically have little or no interaction with the instructor.
"It's about open-source learning and innovative techniques," said state Rep. Manny Diaz, a Hialeah Republican, noting that MOOCs are best suited for independent and motivated students.
MOOCs are popular in colleges, and are slowly spreading to Florida's K-12 system.
Earlier this year, Gov. Rick Scott signed a law allowing MOOCs in subject areas with end-of-course exams, including algebra, geometry and biology. The law requires MOOC providers to use Florida-certified teachers and win approval from the state Department of Education.
Some schools are giving it a shot.
High-school students in Pinellas County are enrolled in a remedial math MOOC offered by St. Petersburg College.
In Miami-Dade, G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School is piloting a MOOC in computer science. The University of Miami's Global Academy, an online middle and high school, is offering MOOCs to help students prepare for the Advanced Placement calculus exam and the SAT subject test in biology.
Similarly, Broward College is offering a new MOOC focusing on college-level reading, writing, and math. Half of enrollees are high school students from Broward County, state education officials said.
House Education Committee Chairwoman Marlene O'Toole, R-Lady Lake, stressed that massive open online courses were not requirements, but options for Florida students looking to enhance their education.
"I'm excited by all of the opportunity," O'Toole said.