ANALYSIS OF OPPORTUNITIES AND BARRIERS TO THE USE OF MASS OPEN ONLINE COURSES (MOOC)

Abstract

This study analyzes the potential for integrating online courses into the educational process, as well as the factors hindering their implementation. The transition of higher education institutions to distance learning using technical means during the pandemic has significantly increased the demand for digital educational resources. In this context, the introduction of online courses was seen as a quick and resource-efficient solution. However, to date, the level of use and prevalence of online courses in the university environment remains relatively low. This situation has made this study relevant, the aim of which was to identify the reasons for the limited use of online courses and to develop proposals for their more effective integration. The empirical basis of the study was data collected through surveys and interviews with teachers at higher education institutions. The results of the study revealed the main barriers to the integration of online courses: the specificity of the format, insufficient motivation of teachers, administrative risks when including courses in educational programmes, and a weak regulatory framework in universities. At the same time, the study confirms the high potential of online courses in terms of expanding academic mobility for students and increasing the accessibility of educational resources. The article also provides recommendations for optimising approaches to the use of online courses and improving mechanisms for their integration into the educational process at universities.