The Impact of Learning Experiences in MOOCs on Students’ Future Study Plans

Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) have shown potential for facilitating students’ career development. Numerous studies have explored the effect of MOOC learning on students’ career development in higher education contexts. However, few studies have investigated how MOOC learning affects K12 students’ career and learning plans. Given the substantial benefit of MOOCs to students and the importance of career preparation for K12 students, this mixed-method study aimed to provide students with different school support for their MOOC learning and investigated the influence of the MOOC learning experience on these students’ future education plans. The study used two data sources: (1) surveys with 40 participants and (2) individual interviews and focus group interviews with 12 participants. The findings indicate that the subject students showed great interest in MOOCs, which have the most effect on their future study plans, followed by the benefit of MOOC learning certificates. The study findings could greatly impact i) the advancement of K12, and ii) the promotion of students’ career development. The insights gained from the study enable educators to implement MOOC learning into existing school infrastructures, help students explore their own career and university learning paths, and facilitate their career development.