Security concerns and mitigation approaches for MOOC-based applications

Abstract

MOOCs have expanded educational access beyond the traditional scope and masses. Cloud computing, open source platforms and software frameworks have provided the MOOC elements to support the creation of cost effective infrastructures, minimizing costs with widespread accessibility. However, these foundational elements present security concerns, which include non-enforceable policies, system and software vulnerabilities and the ever-present human error. Mitigating the risks are crucial to effective implementation since exploitation and risk adversities are compounded by scale. This paper presents an exploratory study on the risks, issues and challenges related to MOOC platforms. We introduce some critical security concerns and their impact on end users and providers. We also provide guidelines and suggestions to mitigate these concerns.