Evaluating the Effectiveness of the HUFOCW Programme in Improving Access and Teaching Competency in Developing Countries

Since 2011, Handong Global University has operated the Handong UNITWIN Fellowship OpenCourseWare (HUFOCW) programme to enhance teaching competency and expand access to university-level courses in developing countries. The programme supports faculty in creating lecture materials, freely shared via the OCW platform, similar to MOOCs like Coursera. This study evaluates the programme’s effectiveness in strengthening teaching competency and improving educational access. A mixed-methods approach was used to analyse data from 2022 to 2024. Quantitative data from 154 participating faculty members and 105 platform users, along with platform usage statistics, were descriptively analysed. Qualitative data from seminar feedback, letters, and essays were thematically analysed. Results showed significant improvement in course design, material development, and delivery, with average scores above 4 out of 5 in all areas. Platform usage increased by 74% in average monthly users and 146% in average monthly video views between 2022 and 2024. Feedback also indicated positive effects on student learning. While the programme was effective overall, improvement in some areas—particularly engaging online learners—was relatively limited. To enhance its effectiveness, additional training and localized workshops are recommended.