Female Employees' Skill Development through Learner-Centered MOOC-Based Learning: A Comprehensive Qualitative Study

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Female Employees' Skill Development through Learner-Centered MOOC-Based Learning: A Comprehensive Qualitative Study
Language: English
Authors: Shamsul Huq Bin Shahriar (ORCID 0000-0002-2262-7774), Silvia Akter
Source: Higher Education, Skills and Work-based Learning. 2026 16(1):116-130.
Availability: Emerald Publishing Limited. Howard House, Wagon Lane, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1WA, UK. Tel: +44-1274-777700; Fax: +44-1274-785201; e-mail: emerald@emeraldinsight.com; Web site: http://www.emerald.com/insight
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 15
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: MOOCs, Females, Employees, Skill Development, Job Skills, Foreign Countries, Access to Education, Student Centered Learning, Attitudes, Barriers, Economic Climate, Unemployment
Geographic Terms: Bangladesh
DOI: 10.1108/HESWBL-03-2025-0105
ISSN: 2042-3896
Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to explore the factors contributing to the popularity of learner-centered massive open online courses (MOOCs) among female employees in Bangladesh, employing interpretative phenomenological analysis to discover their perspectives on the evolving learning and development practices within organizations. Design/methodology/approach: This qualitative study utilized interpretative phenomenological analysis to extract themes from semi-structured interviews. Primary data collection involved an initial online survey with forty-three respondents, focusing on those with one to three years of work experience and completion of at least two MOOC courses. Purposive sampling identified twenty-seven female participants from various industries. Findings: The research investigates how global crises have impacted workplace norms, emphasizing the vital role of learner-centered online learning tools such as MOOCs in skill development during challenging times. Interviews reveal the transformative potential of online platforms in fostering career growth and continuous improvement. Identified challenges encompass outdated management frameworks, while prospects within the "future of work," such as remote work and digitalization, offer avenues for growth. The dynamic evolution of employability skills underscores the necessity for adaptability and proactive learning tactics in navigating the current job market landscape, amidst the dual challenges and opportunities precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value: This research revealed the distinctive hurdles faced by female employees in a developing nation, offering valuable insights into how changing workplace norms and skill development efforts intersect.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1501243
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Purpose: This study aims to explore the factors contributing to the popularity of learner-centered massive open online courses (MOOCs) among female employees in Bangladesh, employing interpretative phenomenological analysis to discover their perspectives on the evolving learning and development practices within organizations. Design/methodology/approach: This qualitative study utilized interpretative phenomenological analysis to extract themes from semi-structured interviews. Primary data collection involved an initial online survey with forty-three respondents, focusing on those with one to three years of work experience and completion of at least two MOOC courses. Purposive sampling identified twenty-seven female participants from various industries. Findings: The research investigates how global crises have impacted workplace norms, emphasizing the vital role of learner-centered online learning tools such as MOOCs in skill development during challenging times. Interviews reveal the transformative potential of online platforms in fostering career growth and continuous improvement. Identified challenges encompass outdated management frameworks, while prospects within the "future of work," such as remote work and digitalization, offer avenues for growth. The dynamic evolution of employability skills underscores the necessity for adaptability and proactive learning tactics in navigating the current job market landscape, amidst the dual challenges and opportunities precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value: This research revealed the distinctive hurdles faced by female employees in a developing nation, offering valuable insights into how changing workplace norms and skill development efforts intersect.
ISSN:2042-3896
DOI:10.1108/HESWBL-03-2025-0105