Assessing the Impact of MOOCs and Soft Skills on Research Competencies Using SEM

In an increasingly digitized academic world, MOOCs have become a flexible and accessible solution for higher education. These online courses promise to enhance student participation and collaboration on a global scale. However, their effectiveness in developing research competencies remains a topic of debate. This study, conducted with 192 graduate students in Peru, investigates the influence of MOOCs and soft skills on research competencies, utilizing exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, with structural equation modeling applied to the latter. The results show that MOOCs do not significantly impact research skills; however, soft skills such as communication, respect, and teamwork emerge as key factors for success in research competencies. The relationship between MOOCs and soft skills is low, suggesting that these courses do not include elements that significantly contribute to the development of these skills. These findings help fill a gap in the literature on the effectiveness of MOOCs in the Latin American context and highlight the need for educational approaches that prioritize interpersonal development. Practical implications suggest that graduate programs should focus their efforts on strengthening soft skills to better prepare researchers for current academic and professional challenges.