Perspective Chapter: MOOCs to Bridge the Multilevel Digital Divide

Abstract

Globally, individuals' access to the Internet and digital device has increased. Therefore, MOOCs have been accessible to a wide range of learners with an opportunity to acquire new competencies and knowledge. Contemporary research on the digital divide suggests that increasing access to the Internet and device does not imply that the digital divide has been bridged. The concept of the digital divide went beyond physical access gaps to multilevel disparities such as skill gaps and gain gaps. Nonetheless, MOOCs have the potential to bridge the multilevel digital divide by offering free-of-cost digital skill learning opportunities and enhancing individuals' capability to gain offline benefits from online knowledge. This chapter discusses how MOOCs can contribute to bridging the multilevel digital divide. Besides, the chapter will discuss digital accessibility issues to facilitate people with disabilities. The accessibility issues can hinder them from accessing MOOCs despite having substantial access to the Internet and devices, resulting in digital inequalities. This chapter will provide guidelines to promote learning equity through MOOCs.