Implementing Inclusive Education through Informatization: A Case Study on Promotion of MOOCs in Western China

Abstract

This paper reports on the implementation of Promoting Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Western China, an initiative over a span of 10 years aimed at promoting the MOOC education model in the Western region of China, which plays a crucial role in inclusive education, breaking down geographical barriers and empowering individuals to pursue lifelong learning and realize their full potential. By 2022, this Initiative provided 10,000 customized MOOCs to Western universities, benefited over 2300 universities nationwide, engaged 39.3 million students, and trained 250,000 teachers. The Initiative encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among educational institutions, promoting the development of localized online course content that aligns with the needs and interests of the local community. It also facilitates partnerships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders, fostering regional innovation and entrepreneurship. The analysis focuses on how the development of MOOCs for the Western areas started a journey of inclusive education, resulting in qualitative and quantitatively scaling education opportunities. By presenting the trajectory and outcomes of this Initiative, this paper demonstrates the positive impact of MOOCs in achieving inclusive education while also highlighting the challenges and difficulties encountered in the promotion process.