The Influence of Data Analytics MOOCs in Making Career Decisions: The Case of Project SPARTA Completers

Abstract

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are widely valued across sectors for their ability to build knowledge and skills. With the growing demand for data analytics professionals, MOOCs have become a key tool for teaching data analytics to meet this need. This demand also influences professionals' career decisions. Using the Social Cognitive Career Theory, this study explores the influence of completing data analytics courses under the national project Smarter Philippines through Data Analytics Research and Development, Training, and Adoption. Semi-structured interviews revealed that MOOCs help professionals improve their self-efficacy through Modular Instructions. Participants also developed key data analytics skills such as Root Cause Identification, Dashboard Creation, and Data-driven Presentations. These skills stimulated interest in Data Analytics Specializations, enabling professionals to set career goals either a Cross-functional Transition or Work Promotion. As a result, they engaged in Continuous Skill Expansion. The study identifies themes related to the influence of Data Analytics MOOCs on career decisions and proposes a model based on these findings. It highlights the importance of skill-specific outcomes from MOOCs and suggests further research on the career impacts for professionals who transitioned roles or achieved promotions.