Abstract:

The purpose of the study was to study and examine learner support models in MOOCs. MOOC, which stands for massive open online course, became one of those rare phenomena: an education innovation that captures the imagination of the public at large while moving at a speed of an Internet startup (Haber, 2014). Typically, learner support models are comprised of academic and non-academic support and further divided into sub-categories. A closer examination on literature on and about learner support in this specific open and distance learning (ODL) platform revealed a few support component that seems to be lacking in the context of MOOCs. The literature review only covered studies from 2010 - present associated using keywords “learner support” and “MOOCs” from respected, peer-reviewed journals. Results showed that components of existing learner support models in open and distance learning exist in MOOCs however there are some components that have to be included. Perhaps a new framework or model to include these ‘new’ components may be developed as contributions in MOOCs.

Keywords:

Learner support, Sustainability, MOOCs, Open Education.