MOOCs Explained: My access to First World Education from a third world 2mbps Home.

The internet has changed the way we do things yet the Philippine Educational system is so left behind compared to our booming neighbors like Singapore, Korea and Japan. We just integrated to K12 a few years ago and sadly it seems that when the Americans left more than 60 years, our educational systems haven't changed that much. Our textbooks just get thicker and thicker and more programs/ courses are added. 

So in my desire to self study as I prepare for local Law School Exams, I tried deviating from the usual enlisting into a Review Class/ answering Practice Tests (I still am doing them) and instead enlisted myself in different MOOCs or Massive Open Online Courses offered by different Top Universities in the World.

It's a different approach to self studying, it's a dynamic way of learning too. It's like learning in a classroom except you can rewind, pause or forward your instructor if you want to get to a particular topic. There is class interaction (peer to peer review, chatrooms etc.) and frequent testing and small quizzes. And the best thing? Most courses can be paced accordingly to your schedule. Most of them are free too!

Top Providers of MOOCs: (Courses as of 7/18/2015)

1. Coursera (1,059 Courses)

2. edX (589 Courses)

3. Canvas.net (272 Courses)

4. FutureLearn (174 Courses)

5. Udacity (95 Courses)

(Source: List of 51 providers offering MOOCs/ Online Courses | Class Central )

Plus most of them have mobile applications! I've downloaded the Apps from the sites I signed up so I I can study while in bed, on your commute, in the train, in the toilet, wherever, whenever!

The thing about MOOCs is that most of them are free, but you need to purchase a certificate if you want one. Most Courses are priced around $49 to $39 ( around Php 2,156 to Php 1,719 which I think is the Price per unit in most Colleges so it's relatively cheap to get certification).

If you are considering taking MOOCs seriously and is looking for full courses or MBAs, you might want to check individual College/ Universities. I know Stanford and MIT offer, but they will require a fee and you really need to buy course books only available in the US. But it will still be cheaper than taking it in the US (sans the Culture, prestige of being inside one, but I think for Filipinos who value learning but can only afford as much, this is something worth trying).

Gubat Surf Camp Sorsogon

My childhood in Sorsogon is filled with daily trips to Rizal Beach and so I was really surprised to learn that there is actually a surf camp a kilometer away. Buenavista, Gubat Sorsogon has goodbreaks from early morning and would resume around 4pm. Mid day will give you white water but its good enough for someone who wants to learn. The coastline is wide and the waters are shallow. My cousin and I didn't miss the opportunity to try surfing with some fellows who came all the way from Manila.

<3MissCelineous

Bulusan Lake

An hour's drive from the city will lead you to a rainforest with cool climate and rich vegatation. Bulusan Lake is a crater of freshwater at the foot of the famed Bulusan Volcano. You can enjoy and hour's trail by foot, or simply go kayak or canoe and marvel at the majestic view.

Trail aroun the lake

<3MissCelineous

Pilar Sorsogon Sandbars

 It was a luncheon arranged by Governor Raul Lee that brought me and my dad to the Panumbagan Sandbars that the Government with the help of Sir Milo Naval are trying to develop into a new spot for tourist.

 A 30 minute travel from the Port of Pilar will lead you to an isle with floating cabanas designed by Milo Naval. Boasting white sands and shallow calm waters is what this paradise offer

If you are a passing tourist prepare php 800 for the Cabana Hut rent, Snorkling gear and food and water since there are no available restaurants in the island

Enjoy a walk on the Sandbars where waves meet and unwind yourself in this paradise.

<3MissCelineous

Sagada Mt. Province

A 12 hour drive by van from Manila, Sagada boast of beautiful rice terraces, caves, hanging coffins and waterfalls. Restaurant and coffeeshops that make you feel you're in Makati surrounds this small beautiful town in the Mountain Province. The best Lemon Pies, A restaurant serving strawberry meals and so much more awaits you. Rent a pedal bike or a motor bike to truly explore the wonder of this municipality. But it still is best to walk around town in the chilly climate to truly enjoy what this place has to offer.

Tip: Wear active wear and dont be afraid to take the coldest dips in the springs. 

<3 MissCelineous