The Contributions of MOOCs to Lifelong Learning

ABSTRACT

The quest for lifelong learning has been enacted in many forms over the years through online distance education and Open University programmes. These have subsequently led to newer innovations such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) run by a number of universities worldwide. MOOCs offer free or low-cost educational opportunities to millions worldwide. MOOCs are considered by many as having the potential to provide quality education, enhance social inclusion by including individuals who were traditionally excluded from higher education and provide equal access to learning. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, has further altered the nature of lifelong learning by facilitating greater use of MOOCs across the globe. Millions have used MOOCs for professional development, career transitioning and corporate training amongst several others. This chapter reviews the contributions of MOOCs to lifelong learning. It highlights the social, economic and pedagogical objectives of MOOCs and their role in transforming education through quality, scale and access. It expands the literature on the effectiveness of MOOCs in enhancing lifelong learning and contributes to the literature on adult education, training and lifelong learning. © 2023 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.