Development Education on a Massive Scale: Evaluations and Reflections on a Massive Open Online Course on Sustainable Development

Online platforms have been increasingly used to disseminate development education to a broad range of learners around the globe. This case study examines the development, implementation, and facilitation of a multidisciplinary Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Achieving Sustainable Development by Trinity College Dublin. It explores how MOOCs can be a method for sharing educational content to an international audience, and as a means for understanding public perception of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A mixed-method approach was used for the course evaluation. Quantitative pre-and post-course survey data was analysed to explore learner demographics, motivations, and content perceptions. Qualitative analysis of in-course learner comments illustrated common themes emerging from the course. A total of 3,958 learners from 159 countries registered for the four-week free online course. Learners engaged successfully with the content via 6,116 comments posted and 35,967 completed content steps. Satisfaction with the interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of the course was expressed by learners. Common themes that emerged in learner comments included changing personal perceptions of sustainability, satisfaction with case studies, and improved understanding of the interrelatedness of the SDGs. This research contributes to the body of knowledge of development education, and positions MOOCs as a positive means of disseminating knowledge to an online global audience. Development organisations seeking to engage with the wider public should consider MOOCs as a method for educational practice, or employ pedagogical strategies used in MOOCs in face-to-face learning environments. In addition, MOOCs can also provide timely information about public perceptions towards sustainable development, and offer a means to connect with learners on a global scale