Investigating Learners Perceptions of Completion and Certification in MOOCs

Abstract

[EN] Understanding learners’ perceptions of their own learning outcomes is critical for accurately interpreting those outcomes and planning interventions to help improve them. Past research in massive open online courses (MOOCs) shows that many learners enroll in courses they do not finish, and much research has been conducted investigating the patterns and trends driving this. This paper uses a qualitative methodology to understand how learners perceive course completion and certification, and why they do or do not meet their learning goals. Data were analyzed from fifteen interviews with learners who had enrolled in at least one MOOC. The data suggests that learners have a complex understanding of completion that varies depending on their own goals and access to the material. It also shows that they see certification as distinct from completion, and will only be willing to pursue certification under certain circumstances.