Quality Assessment of Next.js MOOC course for Metropolia University of Applied Sciences

Abstract

This thesis presents a qualitative assessment of the Next.js MOOC offered by Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, a 3-credit-hour course designed to introduce learners to modern web development practices using the Next.js framework. Online learning and MOOCs provide flexible, scalable opportunities for acquiring practical coding skills, and this study evaluates how effectively this course delivers both conceptual understanding and applied experience.

The assessment uses a module-by-module approach, examining instructional design, technical accuracy, learner engagement, and the alignment of activities, including assignments, quizzes, projects, and the final exam, with learning objectives. Key features include hands-on exercises, a four-view project, and deployment tasks that provide realistic practice and bridge the gap between theory and real-world web development workflows. The final exam allows up to three attempts, grades students based on their highest score, and requires a minimum of 23 out of 25 to pass, supporting both mastery and learner confidence.

Findings indicate that the course is well-structured, technically accurate, and pedagogically effective for a fundamental web development course. Strengths include progressive module design, applied exercises, and integrated projects that enhance skill reinforcement and learner engagement. Recommendations for improvement include using monospaced fonts and code blocks for clarity, offering example solutions and optional advanced exercises, and providing troubleshooting guidance for deployment tasks.

Overall, this evaluation provides actionable insights to enhance the design and delivery of MOOCs in web development education, ensuring learners gain meaningful, practical experience alongside foundational knowledge.

Keywords: Next.js, Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), E-learning, Course Quality Assessment, Quality Matters (QM), eLearning Quality (eLQ).