Azita Barzekar - Department of E-Learning in Medical Sciences, Virtual School and Center of Excellence in E-Learning, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Nasim Salehi - School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, WA, Southern Cross University, Faculty of Health, QLD, Australia
Zahra Karimian - Department of E-Learning in Medical Sciences, Virtual School and Center of Excellence in E-Learning, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Manoosh Mehrabi - Department of E-Learning in Medical Sciences, Virtual School and Center of Excellence in E-Learning, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

Background: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have had an increasing trend globally during the last two decades. They are emerging as flexible and complementary tools in open education. Nevertheless, their development demands substantial resources, and challenges persist in effectively involving faculty. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing MOOCs development based on e-learning experts’ perspectives within the Iranian universities of medical sciences.Methods: This qualitative research was conducted in ۲۰۲۲ using the content analysis method. Purposeful sampling was used to select experts authorized in e-learning within Iranian medical sciences universities with at least two years of experience. Sampling continued until data saturation (n: ۱۵). Data was collected using a semi-structured interview administered through online written approaches. Thematic analysis techniques were applied, involving the identification of codes. The data was analyzed at the level of open coding (items), axial coding (components), and selective coding (concepts) in a round-trip process.Results: Thematic analysis resulted in ۲۸ codes, ۱۲ themes, and ۴ categories. Influential factors on MOOCs development and engagement included: ۱) structural factors (rules/regulations, clarity, structure); ۲) human resources (empowerment, support, attitude, motivation); ۳) cultural factors (symbols, unity); and ۴) political factors (equity, participation, and negotiation, profit).Conclusion: The development of successful MOOCs programs encompasses various factors, including cultural, human resource, political, and structural elements to empower and actively engage faculty members in MOOCs. Restructuring may be required regarding the multivariable changes to consider open, online education as a part of innovative educational pathways in universities.

E-Learning, E-Content, education, Distance, Massive Open Online Courses, Medical