Patterns of persistence: what engages students in a remedial english writing MOOC?

Abstract

MOOCs have the potential to help institutions and students needing remedial English language instruction in two ways. First, with their capacity to use a wide range of instructional approaches and to emphasize contextualized and visual learning, MOOCS can offer potentially more effective pedagogical approaches for remedial students. Second, if students increase success meeting college-level English competencies, MOOCS can help institutions and students conserve their limited resources. Similarly, MOOCs offer domestically and international employers opportunities to provide professional development to workers both in ways that are flexible, affordable and interactive.