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Leveraging Technology-Enhanced Learning for Public Health Through a MOOC on Ayurveda Medicine: Initiative of the University of Mauritius
Abstract
In Mauritius, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) poses significant public health challenges. To address this critical issue, the University of Mauritius launched a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Ayurveda Medicine on Moodle. The 10-week course aimed to raise awareness and promote the adoption of sustainable, healthy practices rooted in Ayurveda's holistic principles of preventive healthcare and well-being. Designed to appeal to a heterogeneous audience, the course has attracted participants from varied educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds. The course was available free of charge to the general public who chose not to earn the credits, as part of the University of Mauritius community service initiatives.
This study examines the conceptualization, development, and implementation of the MOOC, highlighting how innovative digital pedagogy is used to impart traditional knowledge, and translate it into real-time public utility. The course's design strategies emphasized accessibility and inclusivity, given the heterogeneous audience. Findings from participants’ survey and reflective journals, indicated that the MOOC significantly increased participants' awareness of sustainable health practices, leading to behavioral changes aligned with Ayurveda's preventive health recommendations, as well as the development of digital skills to independently look for health-related information.
The findings underscore the transformative potential of technology-enhanced learning to address public health challenges in culturally diverse settings.
PCF11 Sub-Theme: Changing Mindsets for Inclusive Open Education
Paper ID: 5450
Subject
Country
Mauritius
Region
Africa
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Date
2025-09
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Publisher
Commonwealth of Learning (COL)