Most Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Ireland and the UK began engaging with MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) production in 2012–2013, driven by both experimentation and a desire to innovate in digital learning. Now, over a decade later, many institutions have refined their approaches and learned valuable lessons about how to manage MOOC production effectively both as a pedagogical endeavour and a strategic initiative.
This webinar will present insights from my PhD research, which explored MOOC production across eighteen HEIs in Ireland and the UK. The study focuses on three key stakeholder groups involved in the production process: learning designers, academic staff (lecturers), and senior managers. Each group brings a unique perspective to the challenges, opportunities, and institutional motivations behind MOOCs.
By bringing these voices together, the research uncovers a complex picture of how MOOC production is organised, who drives the process, and how decisions about platform, content, and pedagogy are made. More importantly, it reveals how MOOC production is increasingly being tied to broader institutional goals such as internationalisation, brand building, innovation and outreach.
This session will highlight key themes that emerged from the research, including tensions between academic autonomy and strategic alignment, the evolving role of learning designers, and the importance of sustainable production models. Whether your institution is experienced in MOOC production or just beginning the journey, the webinar will offer insights into the organisational dynamics at play and how MOOCs can be better integrated into institutional strategy.
CPD Webinar Host: Louise Kearins
United Kingdom