Factors that influence learner engagement and completion rate in an xMOOC on energy and sustainability

Abstract

In Mexico, there has been a rise in Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) enrollments through platforms such as MexicoX. However, this rise in interest has not been accompanied by a corresponding increase in completion rates. This article examines the factors that influence Mexican learners’ retention rates and learner engagement to determine the extent to which a student´s profile can predict his or her ability to engage with and complete an xMOOC on energy and sustainability. Correlation and multiple regression analysis methods were employed to analyze a sample dataset (n = 844) of participants who had completed the xMOOC. It was found that the critical factors affecting completion rate were age, education level, and primary occupation and that participants who were most likely to complete an xMOOC were 34 years of age or older, had a bachelor’s degree or higher, and were in a full-time job.