Department of Educational Administration
Date of this Version
Fall 12-5-2014
Citation
Waln-Lewellyn, T. L. (2014). Massive open online courses and mission: A qualitative study regarding matching MOOC opportunity with mission statement (Master's thesis, University of Nebraska).
Abstract
Since the first offering in 2008 (Fini, 2009; Liyanagunawardena, Adams & Williams, 2013), Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have been a phenomenon in higher education. While much research has been conducted on activities and experiences within these courses, little research from an administrative standpoint has been completed (Liyanagunawardena, et al., 2013). This qualitative case study examined the use of the mission statement in a committee’s determination whether or not to implement a MOOC at a Jesuit institution of higher education in the United States. Interviews were conducted with committee members, transcribed, and analyzed. Analysis determined that the mission statement did play an integral role in the decision to create a MOOC at the institution. Three central themes emerged from studying the committee’s deliberations: Mission-Centered, Jesuit Tradition and Access. These themes, which reflect directly upon the mission statement, would be useful to those who are concerned about the appropriateness of fit for a MOOC at their own institutions.
Advisor: Barbara LaCost
Comments
A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Arts, Major: Educational Administration, Under the Supervision of Professor Barbara LaCost. Lincoln, Nebraska: October, 2014
Copyright (c) 2014 Tara L. Waln-Lewellyn