Integrating Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) into Traditional Classrooms: Impact on Student Engagement, Learning Outcomes, and Educator Perspectives

Abstract

This research investigates the integration of MOOCs as a supplement to traditional classroom instruction, particularly in enhancing student learning outcomes and engagement as well as the efficacy of educators. A mixed-methods design using quantitative and qualitative data, via surveys and semi-structured interviews with educators in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The research shows that MOOCs help to increase student engagement, support individualized learning, and improve student performance. Key areas for the integration of MOOCs include promoting a sense of community among learners and enhancing learner motivation, but challenges in using MOOCs in an academic course have included issues about time to integrate including aligning with curriculum content and student learning outcomes. It was mentioned in the study that MOOCs are useful as an ancillary resource, but there were issues of whether they would fit modern educational goals. It was also concluded that various demographic variables like age, gender, and professional experience did not significantly affect perception of MOOC integration. The results highlight the need for better integration in formal curricula, for quality control, and educator support. This work adds to the literature on MOOCs and, in particular, offers practical measures for using them in traditional classrooms and suggestions for future improvement of their integration and effectiveness as tools used to enhance the educative process. Future research should investigate the longer-term effects of MOOCs and their educational role in a number of contexts.

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