Abstract:

For decades it has been identified by practitioners, educators and governments that there is a significant digital divide because of a lack of easy and ready access to the internet across countries. Over the years, this disparity has decreased somewhat because of open markets and global competition and the infiltration of telecommunication companies into some of these countries. These telecommunication companies provide the infrastructure and services needed to get access to the internet. The utilization of wireless network technology has also facilitated improvements in internet access. This improvement assists another area of disparity that is often highlighted which is the availability and access to technology education and the development of the skill sets needed to succeed in this area. Globally we have seen the use of technology grow exponentially in every area of life from communications to production and supply chain management to the financial sector and the economy. It would therefore seem that it is in the best interest of any country to have its people embrace technology and acquire the skills needed to utilize technology effectively. For some countries however the economic cost of this type of education for all of its citizens is a deterrent. Technology education and training can be obtained utilizing a variety of different methodologies both formal and informal, such as degrees, certifications, skill-based courses, self-taught tools and techniques. The internet has also had a significant impact on course availability, delivery and the way individuals learn. One such area that has evolved with over a dozen different platforms is in e-Learning using Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC). A MOOC is a course of study in a specific area that is available online to anyone who wishes to utilize it. Most MOOC are free, although some do have a fee which is charged for value-added services. Several universities and colleges in the United States and other countries globally have created MOOC which are available for anyone to use. In 2016 it was reported that there were over 6000+ MOOC courses with over 58 million students enrolled. The research question being explored here focuses on the potential impact that this may have on bridging the gap in the area of technology education and the potential for a globalized educational platform. Does MOOC have the potential of leveling the playing field as it relates to the availability of skills-based training in technology and other fields of study?

Keywords:

Computer technology, technology education, MOOC, digitalization, globalization.