What are the success rates typically observed in MOOCs versus traditional university courses

Okay, so I’m trying to figure out whether taking a MOOC is really worth it compared to just taking a regular class at a university. I see all these courses online, and they seem great and convenient, but are people actually finishing them and learning the material?

I’m particularly interested in a comparison of completion rates, not just enrollment numbers. I also wonder if the subject matter impacts these success rates? Like, are STEM MOOCs more likely to be completed than, say, humanities MOOCs? And are there differences in retention of information after a certain period of time? Does someone who finished a MOOC a year ago remember as much as someone who took a university course a year ago?

Finally, what about career outcomes? Does completing a MOOC actually give you a leg up in the job market the way a university credential does? I’m really trying to weigh the pros and cons before committing to either option. So, any statistics, studies, or even anecdotal evidence would be super helpful!

Answer

Success rates in MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) are typically significantly lower than those observed in traditional university courses. This disparity stems from a variety of factors related to the differing learning environments, student populations, and motivational structures.

MOOC Success Rates:

• Completion Rates: The most commonly cited metric for success in MOOCs is the completion rate, which refers to the percentage of enrolled students who finish the course. Generally, MOOC completion rates are notoriously low.

  • Typical Range: Average completion rates usually fall between 3% and 15%. Some courses may see slightly higher rates, particularly those with strong branding, specific target audiences, or mandatory components (e.g., corporate training). However, these remain exceptions rather than the rule.
  • Variability: Completion rates vary substantially depending on the course subject, level, platform, and student demographics. Introductory courses often have lower completion rates than more advanced or specialized courses. Courses with a strong practical component, a clear career benefit, or a strong sense of community may see higher completion rates.

• Factors Affecting MOOC Completion Rates:

  • Motivation and Commitment: MOOCs often attract a diverse audience, including casual learners who may enroll out of curiosity without a strong commitment to completion. Many students enroll without fully understanding the time commitment involved.
  • Lack of Structure and Support: Compared to traditional university courses, MOOCs typically offer less structured support. Students must be highly self-disciplined and proactive in seeking help when needed. The absence of regular face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers can lead to feelings of isolation and decreased motivation.
  • Assessment and Feedback: While some MOOCs offer assessments, the level of personalized feedback is often limited due to the large class sizes. Automated grading systems may not provide the nuanced feedback necessary for effective learning. The lack of high-stakes assessments (e.g., graded assignments or exams) can reduce the incentive to complete the course.
  • Accessibility and Cost: Although MOOCs are often marketed as being free, many require payment for graded assignments, certificates, or access to certain course materials. Unexpected costs can deter students from completing the course. Time constraints, technical difficulties, and insufficient prior knowledge are also significant barriers to completion.
  • Prior Education: Students with higher levels of prior education are more likely to complete MOOCs. They possess better self-regulation and study skills.
  • Language Barriers: MOOCs offered in English may pose challenges for non-native speakers, hindering their ability to fully engage with the course material.
  • Course Design: The design of the MOOC itself plays a crucial role. Engaging content, clear learning objectives, well-structured modules, and opportunities for interaction can all contribute to higher completion rates.
• Alternative Success Metrics: Given the limitations of completion rate as a sole measure of success, researchers and educators have explored alternative metrics, including:
  • Active Participation: Tracking student engagement through forum posts, quiz attempts, and video views can provide a more nuanced understanding of learning outcomes.
  • Knowledge Gain: Assessing pre- and post-course knowledge levels can demonstrate the effectiveness of the MOOC in improving student understanding, even if they do not complete the entire course.
  • Self-Reported Learning: Surveys and interviews can gather student feedback on their learning experience and perceived benefits of the MOOC.
  • Application of Knowledge: Evaluating whether students apply the knowledge and skills gained from the MOOC in their work or personal lives.

Traditional University Course Success Rates:

• Completion Rates: Completion rates in traditional university courses are significantly higher than those in MOOCs.

  • Typical Range: Course completion rates in traditional on-campus programs typically range from 70% to 95%, depending on the institution, course subject, and student demographics.

• Factors Affecting Traditional Course Completion Rates:

  • Structured Learning Environment: Traditional courses offer a structured learning environment with regular class meetings, instructor interaction, and peer support. This structure helps students stay on track and maintain motivation.
  • Instructor Support and Feedback: Instructors in traditional courses provide personalized feedback on assignments and exams, offering guidance and support to students throughout the course.
  • Accountability and Assessment: Traditional courses typically involve graded assignments, exams, and other assessments that contribute to the final grade. This accountability encourages students to engage with the material and complete the course.
  • Selective Admission: Universities often have selective admission processes, which means that students admitted to traditional programs are generally more prepared and motivated than those who enroll in MOOCs.
  • Cost and Commitment: The significant financial investment in a university education creates a stronger incentive for students to complete their courses.
• Grade Distribution:
  • Traditional university courses also benefit from an established grading system, where success is typically measured by the student’s final grade. Grade distributions vary by course and institution, but instructors target a distribution reflecting the expected level of mastery of the material.

Key Differences and Considerations:

Conclusion:

While MOOCs offer valuable learning opportunities for a global audience, their low completion rates highlight the challenges of engaging and supporting learners in a fully online, self-directed environment. Traditional university courses benefit from a more structured learning environment, personalized support, and higher levels of accountability, leading to significantly higher completion rates. However, comparing the success of the two formats requires considering the distinct goals and populations that each serves. MOOCs often cater to casual learners seeking specific skills or knowledge, while traditional university courses are designed for students pursuing a formal degree. Therefore, focusing solely on completion rates may not provide a complete picture of the value and impact of each learning format. Alternative metrics, such as knowledge gain and active participation, offer a more nuanced understanding of learning outcomes in MOOCs.