Retention in MOOC courses – what can we learn?

Abstract

MOOCs (massive open online courses) typically have low retention rates compared to classroom teaching. In this article, we discuss the retention of MOOCs via a case example from Laurea University of Applied Sciences. We reviewed a set of ongoing MOOC courses at Laurea to identify potential factors influencing the retention rate. We found that MOOCs with higher retention are often courses with a smaller number of ECTS credits, have cohesive guiding throughout the course, and their versatile activities offer students flexible and adaptive learning opportunities. We also found that voluntary interaction between students through discussion activities seems to support higher retention. We argue that there is no single right way to make MOOCs. Instead, MOOCs must be tailored according to the content and target group by utilizing the features of the virtual learning environment in a pedagogically meaningful way.

Keywords: MOOC, online course, retention