Factors influencing the success of massive open online courses from learners’ perspective

Abstract

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have become a transformative force in modern education, offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities to diverse populations. Although MOOCs have great potential, MOOCs face persistent challenges, including low completion rates—ranging from 5–15% globally and reportedly as high as 90% in some contexts—and a lack of personalized learning interventions. This study investigates factors influencing MOOC success, focusing on learner motivation, diverse learning styles, and the critical role of instructors in student retention. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative data with qualitative insights from surveys and interviews with participants and facilitators from three Malaysian universities. Findings highlight that while MOOCs excel at fostering independent and collaborative learning, their success depends on addressing diverse learner needs. Visual and aural learning styles were identified as the most effective for participants, underscoring the need for personalized instructional strategies. Additionally, the study reveals a disparity in instructors’ social versus academic contributions, with limited emphasis on systematic scaffolding and inquiry-based learning support, which are crucial for fostering higher cognitive engagement. The research contributes theoretical, practical, and methodological insights into the MOOC landscape, particularly within Malaysia, where over 20% of higher education students reportedly enrolled in MOOCs by 2022. The study emphasizes learner-centered design and personalized intervention strategies, which could enhance engagement and improve retention rates by up to 30%. It also underscores the importance of instructor involvement in guiding inquiry and adapting teaching strategies to diverse learning styles. In conclusion, while MOOCs hold significant promise for democratizing education, addressing challenges such as high dropout rates and insufficient academic support is critical. This study offers valuable recommendations for developers, educators, and policymakers to enhance MOOC implementation and effectiveness, paving the way for more inclusive and successful online education models globally and in Malaysia.