In the ever-evolving landscape of education, one term has been making waves: cohort-based learning. What exactly is a cohort, you ask? Picture a group of individuals, diverse yet connected by a shared goal or characteristic, embarking on a learning journey together. This is the essence of a cohort—a concept that is revolutionizing the way we approach online education.

Cohort-based courses, as their name implies, offer a structured format where learners engage alongside peers in real time. Over the past decade, as online learning seeks to emulate traditional classroom experiences, various attempts have been made. From the advent of massive open online courses (MOOCs) to platforms like Udemy and Codecademy, the aim has been to bridge the gap between virtual and in-person learning. However, a persistent challenge looms over these endeavors: completion rates.

All too often, learners invest their time and resources into these platforms only to abandon their studies midway through. It’s a phenomenon not exclusive to the digital realm—studies suggest that a mere 3-5% of book buyers actually finish the books they purchase. This is why publishers strategically place captivating content within the first 20% of a book. Similarly, online video courses on platforms like Udemy face similar completion rate challenges.

Enter cohort-based courses, boasting completion rates as high as 90%. This paradigm shift owes its genesis to a confluence of events. The proliferation of high-speed internet, particularly in developed and emerging economies, empowered humanity with unparalleled connectivity. This, coupled with the emergence of seamless video conferencing tools from industry giants like Zoom and Microsoft (think MS Teams), set the stage. Then, the unforeseen catalyst—a global pandemic—forced society to embrace these technologies, breathing new life into cohort-based learning.

But what makes cohort-based courses at SkillUp Exchange so compelling for both learners and creators?

Networking takes center stage. Unlike the solitary journey of on-demand video courses, cohort-based learning fosters collaboration among students. Joint projects and breakout sessions create an atmosphere of camaraderie that is challenging to replicate elsewhere.

Access to the creator is unparalleled. In live courses, students have direct interaction with instructors—a luxury lacking in on-demand learning. This becomes particularly valuable when the creator is a seasoned professional, sharing insights from a journey familiar to many.

Accountability becomes inherent. Cohort-based courses, often perceived as premium products, instill a sense of responsibility in learners to complete the course and earn that coveted certificate.

A robust support system emerges. Learning is never easy, especially for working professionals juggling responsibilities. Here, the cohort’s support, along with instructors and teaching assistants, proves invaluable.

In essence, cohort-based learning represents a seismic shift in online education—a convergence of technology, necessity, and human connection. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, one thing remains clear: the power of cohorts is here to stay, reshaping the way we learn and grow together.