Digital Academic Enhancement In Higher Education Of Pakistan: A Perspective Study with Reference to MOOCs

Abstract

This paper aims to highlight the uprising concept of digital learning platforms that is known as “MOOCs” this abbreviation branded as Massive Open Online courses. Now the Technologically developed states MOOCs are rapidly increasing and becoming a potential source of E-learning. In this paper, the attention is drawn towards MOOCs, its understanding perception and obstacles faced by universities of Islamabad Pakistan. The paper also aims to highlight the importance for building digital skills in the university students of Pakistan. The paper additionally examines the present standing of universities within the context of MOOCs program and platform. The paper relies on semi-structured interviews that were conducted to gather information concerning MOOCs from the university students of ICT. Exclusively public sector universities were selected as part of research sample to explore the standing, progress and problems concerning "MOOCs'' relating to building digital skills and capability of e-learning and services within the universities of Islamabad. Globally, the expansion of MOOCs concept has been seen particularly in technological advanced countries such as United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Japan, China where technology, digital transmission & transformation are resilient. Therefore, HEC has also emphasized on the importance of MOOCs program and its adoption as an e-learning platform for the improvement of education, learning and research in Pakistan. Only the Allam Iqbal Open University has a similar platform whereas the rest of universities are working on the adaptation of technology for E-learning.  The findings of semi structured interviews show that mostly students in Islamabad are unaware of the e-learning platforms and they have no idea about this perspective & mode of learning. The findings suggest that there is a need to improve the digital understanding & acceptance in the university learners regarding motivate them to use technology in a more efficient manner for learning.