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ABSTRACT
This article explores the role of culture and the concept of openness as they relate to learning using a massive open online course which teaches the Irish language and Irish culture to learners around the world. It explores how best to describe the meaning of such learning, and the social, material, and relational tensions that exist in such provision. Using a qualitative case study design, we analyzed a collection of 3507 learner comments placed on key reflective steps throughout the course. From the analysis of learner experiences, motivations, and opinions, we identified five major themes. We then examined the role of inequality, social justice, and lifelong learning in light of the themes. The article concludes with recommendations for further research, in addition to reflections on the value of small-scale case studies to explore the diversity inherent in MOOC provision.
Acknowledgments
The study was supported by the Department of Heritage, Culture and Gaeltacht under the 20-year strategy for the Irish language, and by the Irish National Lottery.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was declared by the authors.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Conchúr Mac Lochlainn
Conchúr Mac Lochlainn is a PhD candidate at Dublin City University. His research interests include the psychology of language learning, applied linguistics, and online pedagogical approaches, with a specific focus on informal, distance, and lifelong adult language learning.
Mairéad Nic Giolla Mhichíl
Dr. Mairéad Nic Giolla Mhichíl is an associate professor and Head of the Ideas Lab in the National Institute of Digital Learning in Dublin City University, as well as a senior research fellow with the National Institute for Digital Learning, researching MOOCs and implementing the university’s strategic initiative in this area.
Elaine Beirne
Elaine Beirne is a PhD candidate at Dublin City University. Elaine is recognized as an emerging scholar by the Online Learning Consortiums’ Research Center. Her research interests include educational psychology, MOOCs and computer-assisted language learning.
Mark Brown
Professor Mark Brown is full professor and the head of the National Institute for Digital Learning at Dublin City University. His research interests are primarily in the areas of digital learning, blended education, and open educational practices.