Using MOOC Camps to Scale Up Professional Development Programs in the Philippines During Changing Times

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant challenges to the education and professional development sector globally. In the Philippines, traditional professional development programs are often limited in their reach and scalability, particularly for those who work in remote areas with limited access to resources. This research examined the potential of using Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and MOOC camps to scale up professional development during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of MOOCs and MOOC camps as a tool for professional development. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research analyzed the experiences of 40 participants from all over the Philippines in participating in a virtual MOOC camp facilitator training conducted from August to September, 2022, including their expectations, engagement, and learning outcomes. In addition, this study explored the participants' perspectives and experiences in organizing MOOC camps in their respective communities through a multiplier-effect method. Data were collected through surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with the training participants. Findings revealed participants' training expectations focusing on gaining MOOC camp facilitation skills, and training output including facilitation of 17 MOOC camps using six MOOCs (Content-Based Instruction, English for Journalism, English as Medium of Instruction, English for Media Literacy for Educators, English for STEM Fields, and Professional Development for Teacher Trainers) from September to Decemeber, 2022, resulting in 457 completers from five different locations across the Philippines. Findings from this study can help inform the design and implementation of effective and sustainable professional development programs in the Philippines and other contexts facing similar challenges. Overall, this research aims to contribute to the literature on using MOOC camps for professional development, particularly in the context of the changing times.