Factors leading to an effective MOOC from participiants perspective

Abstract

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are dominating the eLearning field due to its sound pedagogical features and being open to any interest participant. Due to popularity and the demand, number of MOOCs increases at a higher rate. However, not all the MOOCs meet the goals of user. In other terms, not all the MOOCs are effective. It is vital to identify the factors affect to an effective MOOC. Since the MOOC concept is new, student's behaviors and requirements are different than a typical eLearning course. Hence we used Grounded Theory (GT) methodology in order to identify these factors. We found 10 dimensions which affects to an effective MOOC; namely interactivity, collaboration, pedagogy, motivation, network of opportunities/ future directions, assessment, learner support, technology, usability and content. This research explains the process of GT and the results dimensions will assist in designing and implementing an effective MOOC.