What are MOOCs?

Massive Open Online Courses, commonly known as MOOCs, are free or low-cost online courses designed to accommodate a large number of participants from around the world. They provide accessible education on a wide range of subjects, from computer science and business to humanities and personal development. MOOCs are typically offered by universities, colleges, and educational platforms, allowing learners to study at their own pace through video lectures, readings, quizzes, and interactive forums. The “massive” aspect refers to the courses’ ability to enroll thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands, of students simultaneously. “Open” means that these courses are generally available to anyone with an internet connection, without traditional admission requirements. MOOCs have become popular for their flexibility, accessibility, and the opportunity they provide for lifelong learning, professional development, or exploring new interests without the need for formal enrollment in a degree program.