Development of a MOOC on power frequency electromagnetic fields

RTE France developed a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on electromagnetic fields (EMF) caused by power frequency, giving everybody free access to inform themselves about the much debated topic. The MOOC includes information material, videos and a discussion forum.

 

Highlights

• The platform aims at opening up educational content to as many people as possible without constraints and at offering each person the most suitable, personalised learning experience
• This new approach is also an exercise for RTE to build confidence in managing the EMF issue and reducing fears in a lasting way

 

About the practice

EMF and the related health debate are some of the main topics driving public opposition against grid development projects, which are key for the integration of renewable energy and the energy transition in Europe. The debate is often emotional and a lot of unreliable EMF information, that increases fears, is accessible online, whereas scientific information is often disregarded due to its complexity. RTE’s MOOC represents a solution to the lack of clear, transparent and user-friendly information on the topic and bundles technical information, scientific facts and statements by authorities on one platform. The MOOC is free of charge and in full operation since May 2019.

The MOOC offers learning courses on “Essential concepts related to electromagnetic fields”, “Introduction to relevant biomedical studies”, “Results of biomedical studies on low frequency EMF” and “Regulation”, lasting for one week each. Subscribing to the MOOC also allows to participate in the forum and discuss with moderators/EMF experts. In parallel to the participation in a MOOC session, all the teaching material (videos and associated documents) is also readily accessible.

The goal behind the MOOC is to reduce fears by providing the public (including health professionals) with unbiased information and allow for a better assessment of EMF issues by all stakeholder groups. Therefore, the target groups of the MOOC also include RTE employees, who use the tool for their own training and as a guideline when engaging in dialogues with concerned residents.

Find out more

The MOOC was developed by RTE in cooperation with the French national authoritative bodies in health and environment (ministries and agencies), expert researchers and selected health professionals. It also includes results of in-depth discussions on EMF with environmental NGOs.

Depending on its success, an English version of the MOOC might be developed and offered to European and international organisations including other TSOs. You can check online sources clicking on the links below.