The soul behind the screen:understanding cultural enrichment as a motivation of informal MOOC learning. Issue 2 (2nd April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mac Lochlainn, Conchúr; Nic Giolla Mhichíl, Mairéad; Beirne, Elaine; Brown, Mark
• Is Part Of: Distance education. Volume 41:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 201
• Page End: 215
• Publication Date: 2020-04-02
• Subjects: massive open online course -- social justice -- qualitative case study -- online language learning; Distance education -- Periodicals; Distance education -- Australia -- Periodicals; 371.3505
• DOI: 10.1080/01587919.2020.1757408
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0158-7919

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article explores the role of culture and the concept of openness as they relate to learning using a massive open online course which teaches the Irish language and Irish culture to learners around the world. It explores how best to describe the meaning of such learning, and the social, material, and relational tensions that exist in such provision. Using a qualitative case study design, we analyzed a collection of 3507 learner comments placed on key reflective steps throughout the course. From the analysis of learner experiences, motivations, and opinions, we identified five major themes. We then examined the role of inequality, social justice, and lifelong learning in light of the themes. The article concludes with recommendations for further research, in addition to reflections on the value of small-scale case studies to explore the diversity inherent in MOOC provision.