Learner Perceptions of Learning Gains and Attitude Change in Three Massive Open Online Courses

• In Event: Roundtable Session 51
  In Roundtable Session: Social Networking and Online Learning Space in Instructional Technology

Abstract

More MOOCs in the social sciences are beginning to be offered, increasing the likelihood of their use for more critical and controversial conversations that include attitudinal change as a targeted learning outcome. With higher education institutions and platform providers expanding their MOOC offerings and beginning to include courses addressing controversial topics, there is a need for more research into the design and instruction for these topics. MOOCs may be uniquely positioned to promote attitude change at a global level, and thus, research on attitudinal change in MOOCs can inform attitudinal change instruction on other platforms. This study examines three cases of MOOCs that were specifically designed to effect attitudinal change and learner perceptions of learning gains in attitude change.

Authors

• Sunnie Lee Watson, Purdue University

• Woori Kim, Purdue University

• William R. Watson, Purdue University