Case Study: Strategic and Leadership Challenges of MOOCs in Education

This case study delves into the strategic and leadership issues presented by Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) within the international higher education landscape. Framed by Porter's Five Forces, the analysis provides a framework for institutional leaders and strategic planners to explore specific strategic and operational responses relevant to their unique contexts. It addresses the opportunities and threats posed by MOOCs, including their potential for disruption, competition, and impact on traditional higher education values. The study also examines the economic models, structural questions, and democratic access aspects of MOOCs, contrasting them with traditional educational technologies. By applying Porter's model, the paper evaluates the threat of substitute products or services, the threat of new entrants, and other competitive forces within the MOOC environment, offering insights into the strategic decisions institutions must make regarding investment, licensing, and quality assurance.