Why Completion Rates for Online Courses Are Staying Low
The growth in online courses, particularly massive open online courses (MOOCs), has been impressive. However, despite the large number of people starting these courses, the completion rates are predominantly low. In this article, we will explore why the tendency to finish an online course after starting it is so minimal, focusing on factors such as motivation, cost, and course structure.
The Insidious Numbers
According to extensive studies and data from various online platforms, the completion rates for online courses are distressingly low. For every single online course launched, less than 5% of participants manage to complete it. This trend is consistent across all platforms, indicating a widespread issue rather than an anomaly.
Long-Term Trends and International Insights
The data on MOOC completion rates shows a concerning trend. Despite the rise in MOOC participation over the past six years, the vast majority of learners do not return after their first year. This has led to a significant shift in how educators and institutions view online learning.
Interestingly, the growth in MOOC participation has been concentrated in the world's most affluent countries. This suggests that while there is a global interest in online education, success and completion rates are significantly impacted by socio-economic factors. The “bane of MOOCs” as some professionals call it, remains the persistent issue of low completion rates, despite the best efforts to improve.
Motivation and Engagement
There are several reasons why the completion rates for online courses remain low. One of the primary factors is student motivation. Free or low-cost courses do not provide the incentive for learners to complete them, as the absence of monetary investment means a low personal stakes. Additionally, the lack of course credit reduces the academic motivation for students to finish their coursework.
Engagement is another critical factor. Online learning platforms often lack the interactive and personalized support that traditional academic settings provide. This can lead to disengagement and demotivation among learners, making it less likely for them to complete the course.
Barriers to Success
The structure and design of MOOCs also play a significant role. Many MOOCs are sprawling and require a significant time commitment, which not all learners can or are willing to make. Moreover, the self-paced nature of online courses can be isolating, leading to a lack of peer support and motivation.
Another key issue is the lack of immediate feedback. In traditional classroom settings, teachers provide regular feedback, which helps students understand their progress and where they need to improve. Without this feedback, online learners may not feel as connected to the course material or see the value in continuing.
Addressing the Problem
To improve completion rates, educators and platform developers need to focus on several key areas. Firstly, offering MOOC completion rates as an element of accreditation or credit can significantly boost learner motivation. This recognition could encourage learners to see their efforts through to the end.
Secondly, enhancing the interactive and social aspects of MOOCs is essential. Features such as discussion forums, real-time chat, and group projects can help build a sense of community and encourage continued participation.
Conclusion
The low completion rates for online courses are a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While there is significant potential in online education, the industry must address the barriers to completion to truly harness this potential. Only by improving motivation, engagement, and course structure can we hope to see significant improvements in completion rates and, ultimately, the success of online courses.
Keywords: online courses, MOOC completion rates, student motivation