Open Learning Initiative

Open Learning Initiative: Free Online Courses from Carnegie Mellon University

The Open Learning Initiative (OLI) is a free online learning system developed by Carnegie Mellon University. It provides interactive courses in various subjects like statistics, economics, and psychology.

What is Open Learning Initiative?

The Open Learning Initiative (OLI) is a free online learning system developed by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University. It provides interactive online courses in various subjects including statistics, economics, biology, and psychology.

OLI utilizes an AI-based tutor that can give students immediate feedback and adaptive learning experiences. The platform focuses on learning-by-doing through activities, assessments, and frequent feedback. This allows students to apply concepts instead of just memorizing content.

A key goal of OLI is to conduct research on how students learn and how instruction can be improved. User data is collected (while protecting privacy) to refine OLI courses and share results with the broader education community. Studies have found OLI courses to improve student learning compared to more passive instruction methods.

While originally intended for college students and lifetime learners, OLI is now used by some high schools as well. All OLI courses are available for free through the OLI website with no registration required. Educators can also integrate OLI course content through LTI integration.

Open Learning Initiative Features

Official Links