Research Reviews

Looking back through the DERN archives there are a noticeable number of references to MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) since 2012. This research into MOOCs has focussed on the deployment in higher education with limited research into MOOCs for K-12 education. Are there inherent characteristics in the student population that render MOOCs unsuitable for K-12 environments? Do students lack the motivation to successfully engage in MOOCs?  Investigating the Potential of MOOCs in K-12 Teaching and Learning Environments, a paper by Jennifer Nigh, et al articulates the findings of a study undertaken by researchers at Kent State University. The study sets out to explore the potential use of MOOCs in K-12 environments, particularly focussing on student motivation and participation experiences.