What Do Participants Think of Today's MOOCs Designed for Working Professionals?

• In Event: 67.051 - MOOCs: Pedagogies, Participation, and Perspectives

Abstract

This study took an updated look at learners’ perspective of taking MOOCs designed for working professionals and course aspects that MOOC participants found beneficial. General interest in the topic, personal growth and enrichment, relevance to job, and career change were the top reasons for working professionals to enroll in MOOCs. First-time MOOC takers were more likely to seek a certificate, while MOOC veterans may complete most assignments but did not seek for a certificate. Quality materials from a reputable provider remains an important reason for working professionals to enroll in a MOOC. Offering meaningful ways for MOOC participants to interact calls for innovative designs than the current discussion forum can offer. This remains to be a challenge for MOOC designers.

Authors

• Min Liu, The University of Texas at Austin

• Wenting Zou, The University of Texas at Austin

• Yi Shi, The University of Texas at Austin

• Zilong Pan, The University of Texas at Austin

• Chenglu Li, The University of Texas at Austin