Classroom Beyond Walls: Perspectives of Students and Teachers on Pedagogy and Features of MOOCs

Abstract

There is no exaggeration in stating that massive open online courses (MOOCs) have become an integral part of education today. After the pandemic and emergence of the new normal, sudden rise of online learning is witnessed. MOOC, which was an idea, has become an industry now. MOOC, which emerged around 2010s as a movement to democratize learning, has become the next big thing in education now. However, there are very few studies or published data regarding MOOC learners and their experience of learning. The purpose of the present study is to conduct comparative analysis of MOOC platforms in terms of features, content, and user satisfaction. The researchers in the present study conducted an online survey of 250 students and interviews of 30 students of Charotar University of Science and Technology (Gujarat, India) who enrolled for MOOCs offered on five different platforms—Coursera, EdX, Future Learn, Udemy, and Alison. In addition, 10 teachers who integrated MOOC courses in their course transaction were interviewed. It was found that, the chief reasons for undertaking a MOOC are academic requirement, professional development, and interest in the subject matter. The esthetic and simplified presentation of content and ease of access are the major reasons for the popularity of a few platforms. Also, it was found that, MOOC has abysmal completion rates, and a heavy proportion of MOOC attendees does not complete the courses they enrolled for, and the reasons found for the same are lack of motivation and consistency. This study provides actionable insights for online education in general, MOOC in particular.