A study by Duke University and the nonprofit research
organization RTI International found employers like massive open online courses
(MOOCs) and would consider using them in hiring decisions. Unfortunately, the
researchers first had to explain what a MOOC was to most of those surveyed.
The data, based on a survey of more than 100 human
resource professionals from North Carolina, found that 70% had never heard of
MOOCs. Once the concept was explained, 75% said that applicants would have a
leg up in the hiring process if they had taken a MOOC related to the job, and
nearly half said they would consider using MOOCs in their recruitment process.
“We found that there’s still a ways to go before most
employers know about the availability of these classes, but once they learn of
them, they see their potential, especially for professional development
purposes,” Alexandria Walton Radford, program director at RTI International,
told eCampus News.
Only 7% of respondents said they currently use MOOCs
for professional development and training, but more than 70% said they would
consider it.