Moody MOOCS: An Exploration of Emotion in an LMOOC

Abstract

This paper reports on the emotions experienced by participants of a language learning MOOC or LMOOC. It has been previously shown that emotions play a key role in the learning process. Therefore, identifying and understanding the emotions experienced in new learning environments, such as LMOOCs, is of particular importance. This study was conducted during the first iteration of the Irish language and culture MOOC, Irish 101, which is delivered through the FutureLearn platform. An analysis of both self-report data and in-course learner comments is conducted to identify the emotions experienced during various content steps in the LMOOC. We found that positive emotions, such as curiosity, excitement and pride, were reported most strongly by participants throughout the course. However, certain sections of content evoked comparatively stronger instances of negative emotion such as frustration and confusion. Examples of how these emotions manifested in the discussion posts are also presented. This paper concludes by discussing the potential of emotion research for informing LMOOC design.