Identifying Training-Based Functions of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Leading Organizations' Development

Various functions of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) usage should be identified so that with awareness of MOOC's advantages, the organizations can provide the required platforms to implement this type of technology given MOOC's importance and necessity in the workplace. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the training-based functions of MOOCs in leading organizations' development. This was a basic study was conducted using a qualitative research synthesis technique. The statistical population includes documents (books, research and review articles, theses and Internet resources). Of the 86 authentic national and international articles and books published within a period from 2014-2021, a total of 63 samples were selected using a criterion sampling method. Theoretical saturation of themes was reached by the 46th sample.  In order to collect data, the library research method was used. The collected data were then analyzed using a thematic analysis technique. Finally, to validate the proposed model, a total of 6 experts in different fields were selected using a purposive sampling method, and they approved the final model after modifications. The research findings revealed eight sub-themes include contribution to organizational empowerment, creating non-formal learning environment, contribution to creating constructive and supportive learning, occupational-organizational performance enhancement, provision of equal educational services, adaptability of training to changes, promotion of participatory learning, contribution to evaluation and receiving feedback for main category of organizational development. The results indicated that being aware of the functions of MOOC in organization development helps clients and operating staff formulate new and creative organizational solutions to resolve performance problems and increase adaptation to the structure, culture, business processes and strategies of the organization and their development.