Frugal MOOCs: An adaptable contextualized approach to MOOC designs for refugees

Date

2019-12

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Athabasca University

Abstract

There is a growing body of literature that recognizes the role Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) can play in improving access to education globally, and particularly to thousands of people in developing and developed countries. There is increasing concern, however, that the millions of displaced refugee learners throughout Europe, the Middle East, and other regions are still disadvantaged when it comes to engaging in learning through MOOCs. The reasons for this disadvantage range from a lack of appropriate infrastructure or other supporting structures, to a lack of contextualized content. So far, little attention has been paid to contextualized MOOC models, which may both impact policies and be adapted to the specific needs of these learners who often do not have the means to access many education opportunities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to propose a frugally-engineered MOOC model that addresses the barriers of access and participation for refugees. This paper engages in an exploratory research methodology, using findings from the literature and expert opinions gathered through interviews. These findings lead to the development of what the authors call a Frugal MOOC Model which can be contextualized to meet the needs of refugee learners. The paper goes on to highlight the development of the Frugal MOOC Model as the first phase of an ongoing study. It concludes with recommendations for the next phase of the study: how to implement the newly developed model. © Athabasca University.

Description

This article is licensed under Creative Commons License and full text is openly accessible in CUD Digital Repository. The version of the scholarly record of this article is published in International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning (2019), accessible online through this link http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/3350/5246

Keywords

Contextualized education, Cross-cultural designs, Frugal innovations, Frugal MOOCs, Human rights, Implementation, MOOCs, Open educational resources, Sustainability

Citation

Shah, M.A. & Calonge, D.S. (2019). Frugal MOOCs: An adaptable contextualized approach to MOOC designs for refugees. International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 20(5), 1-19. http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/3350/5246

DOI