Frequently Asked Questions

What time is it?

In order to coordinate with peers from around the world, this course uses Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The current time is shown here and you can use this site to convert to your own time zone.

What does self-pacing mean?

This means that all units are available and you can move through the material at the pace that works for you. We think self-pacing is great for several reasons. As soon as you log into the course, you can see all of the content. This lets you access what you’re interested in when you’re ready for it. You can choose to spend more time on certain units if you find that helpful. Since the course is open for a substantial period of time, we think that you will have an easier time fitting the work into your busy schedule.

How do I pass this class? How do grades work?

In this course, we have shifted the emphasis away from grades. What’s important is the effort you put in and the experiences you have. This especially means engaging with the community of your peers, and making assignment work personally meaningful. These things don’t lend themselves to automated evaluation, but benefit greatly from discussion and reflection. For this reason, the course has you focus on collaboration with colleagues and the honor system.

At the end of each unit's content, there will be a completion checklist for you to keep track of activities and assignments completed. The more you do, the more you will get out of the course, but you should also feel free to tailor your experience in the course to your own interests and goals. 

You can view your progress on the Progress page (located on the top navigation bar). If you complete 60% or more of the assigned work and indicate it by filling out the appropriate checklists by the course end date, you will pass the course. However, you will not receive a certificate.

What kind of certificates are there for this course? Do I have to pay?

No certificates can be earned on Open Learning Library. 

When are assignments due?

The assignments won't close until the course ends - you can turn in your assignments, and review your peer's assignments, up until the last day of the course.

When does the course end?

There is no end date for this course. It is run as 'self-paced.'

Where should I go if I have questions?

• If you need technical help using the Open Learning Library platform, click Help, located on the top right corner of the browser screen. 

What about the other Microsoft in Education courses?

Read more about the Microsoft in Education series here.