7 Steps to Successfully Choose and Complete an Online Course

7 Steps to Successfully Choose and Complete an Online Course

Many individuals embark on online learning journeys only to find themselves unable to complete their chosen courses. Platforms like Coursera, for instance, report completion rates ranging from 50% to 60%. Even more concerning, massive open online courses (MOOCs) offered by prestigious institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford have completion rates as low as 20%. Regardless of the reasons, a significant portion of learners abandon their online educational pursuits.

If you're considering online training, the following seven steps can guide you in selecting a course that you're more likely to successfully complete:

Begin by clearly defining your learning objectives. What specific skills or knowledge do you aim to acquire? Ensure that the course aligns with your current schedule and availability. If it's a long-term commitment, careful consideration is essential. You should have a clear understanding of where you want to go, the reputation of the institution or platform offering the course, and its relevance to your goals.Thoroughly evaluate the website, taking the time to understand the teaching methodology and read reviews from previous students. Investing time in this research can save you from enrolling in a subpar course. In essence, conduct a comprehensive assessment of what you want to learn, where, and how.

2.Understand Your Motivation

Why are you seeking to learn this new skill or knowledge? Some individuals enjoy learning for its own sake. Others may be driven by a desire for personal growth, while others may be seeking to advance their careers.It's important to be honest about your motivations. A common pitfall is enrolling in a course simply because it's cheap. Our research at Lectera has shown that nearly 80% of online training purchases are impulsive. While you may be enthusiastic about the course at the time of purchase, the novelty often wears off, and you may never actually start the course. A clear understanding of your reasons for learning will significantly increase your chances of completion.

3.Be Realistic About Your Time Constraints

How much time can you realistically dedicate to learning? Juggling work, family, and other commitments can make it challenging to carve out dedicated study time. If you're already stretched thin, overcommitting to a demanding course is likely to lead to frustration and eventual dropout.Fortunately, there are more efficient ways to learn. Instead of lengthy theoretical courses, consider shorter, more practical training programs that focus on specific skills.

4.Compare Different Platforms

When choosing an online course, consider factors such as:

Popular platforms: Coursera, edX, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, Skillshare, etc.

Course content: Evaluate the quality and relevance of the course material.

Pricing: Compare the costs of different platforms.

Reviews: Read reviews from previous students to get a sense of the overall experience.

Platform features: Consider the specific features and tools offered by each platform.

5.Apply Your Knowledge to Real-World Scenarios

Once you've learned something new, it's crucial to apply it in a practical setting. This reinforces your understanding and makes the learning process more engaging. Seek opportunities to use your new skills in your work or personal life. If you can't find immediate applications, consider creating small projects to practice what you've learned.

6.Leverage Free Resources

Many online learning platforms offer free trials, free courses, and open educational resources. These can be a great way to explore different topics and find the right course for you without committing to a paid subscription.

7. Make an Informed Choice

When selecting a course, consider your learning style, goals, and budget. Start with a single course to get a feel for the platform and the content. Be prepared to adjust your choices as your needs and interests evolve.

Case Study

Let's say you want to improve your Python programming skills. Here's how you might approach the process:

Define your goal: Master Python syntax and be able to build small projects independently.

Research platforms: Compare platforms like Coursera and edX, and choose one with high-quality Python courses, such as Coursera.

Select a course: Find a beginner-friendly Python course.

Create a study schedule: Dedicate specific time each week to learning and set small, achievable goals.

Engage actively: Complete assignments, participate in discussions, and ask questions.

Review regularly: Take notes and review the material to reinforce your learning.

Earn a certificate: Successfully complete the course and earn a certificate to boost your resume.

Conclusion

Success in online learning requires more than just enrollment. By carefully considering your goals, time constraints, and learning style, and by selecting a course that aligns with your needs, you can significantly increase your chances of completing your online studies. Remember, the key to successful online learning is a combination of motivation, commitment, and practical application.