THE accelerating evolution of online teaching through massive open online courses and other variations offers myriad possibilities the Australian sector can seize, especially given its reputation as a pioneer in international education. That's the conclusion of a new Austrade report, More than MOOCs. "We have looked through the prism of international demand for Australian education," senior trade and investment commissioner in the Washington office Kelly Ralston said. There were "a plethora of new opportunities (for institutions), whether to broaden their student base, to raise their profiles internationally or to continue enhancing the quality of the student experience." "It's a fast-moving landscape and it's up to each institution to assess how the new technologies and tools fit within their organisational strategy," she said. "Also Australia has a long tradition of online and distance education, we are a recognised pioneer in international education." These experiences would stand Australia in good stead. "It doesn't have to be a North American conversation," Ms Ralston said.

The Austrade market research is on its way to being required reading in the sector. "It is the best summary of where MOOCs stand worldwide at the moment, what developments (there) are and what they offer," University of Adelaide vice-chancellor Warren Bebbington said, although he confirmed his institution was unlikely to take that route.

MOOCs and other online courses give universities a showcase for their top academic talent: those who not only know their stuff but can communicate it. There are plenty of likely contenders, such as La Trobe University algebraist and ARC Future Fellow Marcel Jackson, who knows how to hit the spot with online consumers. His series The Algebra of Everything, aimed at general viewers,was No 1 on iTunes U in Australia last week and is No 4 in the US.