Unbiased Skillshare Reviews: Expert Insights & Analysis
jillianhunt
September 21, 2023 12:05 pm
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12 min read
Are you considering Skillshare for your online learning needs? With so many courses and platforms available, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. This article will provide you with expert insights and analysis through unbiased Skillshare reviews.
As you explore your options, it’s essential to consider the quality of the courses, platform functionality, pricing, user experience, and more. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive review to help you make an informed decision about Skillshare.
Whether you’re looking for specific skills or general knowledge, Skillshare has something for everyone. In this article, you’ll discover the top-rated courses, platform features, pricing plans, user reviews, and tips for making the most of your learning experience.
Keep reading to learn more about Skillshare and why it might be the perfect platform for you.
Exploring Skillshare Course Quality
When it comes to an online learning platform like Skillshare, the quality of the courses offered is of utmost importance. This section will evaluate the course quality based on various factors.
Factors Affecting Course Quality
To evaluate the quality of Skillshare courses, we considered the following factors:
- Course Content: The relevance, value, and depth of the course material.
- Instructor Expertise: The credentials, experience, and teaching style of the instructor.
- User Ratings: The feedback and ratings provided by users who have taken the course.
The Best Skillshare Courses
After thorough evaluation, we have compiled a list of the best Skillshare courses in various categories:
- Graphic Design: “Graphic Design Basics: Core Principles for Visual Design” by Ellen Lupton
- Photography: “iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone” by Dale McManus
- Writing: “Creative Writing for All: A 10-Day Journaling Challenge” by Emily Gould
- Productivity: “Productivity Masterclass: Principles and Tools to Boost Your Productivity” by Ali Abdaal
These courses have received high ratings and positive feedback from users. They offer valuable insights, practical skills, and creative inspiration.
Understanding the Skillshare Platform
When it comes to choosing an online learning platform, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the platform’s features and functionality. Skillshare has a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily search for courses, engage with the community, and track your progress. Here’s what you need to know about the Skillshare platform:
User Interface
The Skillshare platform is well-designed, with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate. The homepage displays a range of courses in different categories, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. The sidebar menu allows you to browse by topic, instructor, or class length. Overall, the user interface is clean and straightforward, which is ideal for beginners.
Course Searchability
Skillshare has a vast library of courses, including both popular and niche topics. The platform makes it easy to search for courses using keywords, categories, and filters. You can also see how long each course is and which Skillshare plan it’s included in. The search function is powerful, so you can quickly find courses that match your interests and skill level.
Community Engagement
One of the unique aspects of Skillshare is its community of learners and creators. The platform encourages community engagement through features such as class discussions, project galleries, and peer feedback. This allows you to connect with other learners, share your work, and receive feedback on your projects. Skillshare also has a range of social media channels, making it easy to stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments.
User Reviews
Many learners rely on user reviews and feedback when choosing courses on Skillshare. The platform allows users to rate courses and leave comments, providing valuable insights into the learning experience. You can read reviews from other learners to get a sense of the course content, quality, and instructor expertise. This makes it easier to find high-quality courses that are worth your time and money.
Analyzing Skillshare Pricing
Skillshare offers two pricing plans – a free plan and a Premium plan.
The free plan allows users to access a limited selection of courses and resources, with no access to offline viewing or course completion certificates.
The Premium plan, on the other hand, provides unlimited access to the entire Skillshare library, including offline viewing, course completion certificates, and the ability to download class resources.
The Premium plan is priced at $15 per month or $99 annually, which works out to $8.25 per month.
While some users may find the pricing steep, it is important to consider the value that Skillshare provides. With over 23,000 courses taught by industry experts, Skillshare offers a vast array of resources for users to choose from.
Additionally, the platform provides a collaborative learning experience, enabling users to engage with instructors and fellow students. With offline viewing and downloadable resources, users can take their learning on-the-go.
Overall, while the Premium plan does come at a cost, it provides access to a wealth of knowledge and resources that can help individuals develop new skills and advance their careers.
Evaluating the User Experience on Skillshare
When it comes to online learning platforms, the user experience is a critical factor in determining whether or not a service is worth subscribing to. Skillshare boasts a community of more than 12 million students and thousands of classes covering a wide range of creative topics, but what is it like to actually use the platform?
Overall, user reviews of Skillshare are largely positive. Many students praise the breadth and depth of courses available, as well as the quality of instruction provided by expert teachers. Some users even report that they’ve been able to launch successful careers based on skills learned through Skillshare courses.
One common criticism, however, is that the platform can feel disorganized and cluttered. Some users have difficulty finding the courses they’re interested in, while others report that the search functionality could be improved. Additionally, there are some complaints about technical glitches and slow loading times.
That being said, Skillshare is generally regarded as a reliable and user-friendly platform. Customer support is praised for being responsive and helpful, and the ability to interact with instructors and other students adds a valuable social component to the learning experience.
Customer Support
One of the standout features of Skillshare is their customer support. The platform offers multiple channels through which users can get help, including email, phone, and chat support. Many users report that the support team is responsive, helpful, and willing to go above and beyond to solve problems.
Course Completion Rates
Another important metric to consider when evaluating the user experience on Skillshare is course completion rates. According to Skillshare, the average completion rate for their courses is around 25%. This may seem low, but it’s actually on par with similar e-learning platforms.
It’s worth noting that completion rates can vary widely depending on the course and the individual student’s motivation and commitment. However, many users report that the interactive and engaging nature of Skillshare courses makes it easier to stay engaged and motivated throughout the learning process.
Overall, while there are some areas for improvement, the user experience on Skillshare is generally positive. With a responsive support team, engaging courses, and a vibrant community of learners, Skillshare offers a valuable and enjoyable online learning experience.
Top Skillshare Courses in Different Categories
Looking for the best Skillshare courses in a specific category? We’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks:
Art & Design
- Illustration for Beginners: Learn to Draw with Procreate by Jarom Vogel
- Graphic Design Basics: Core Principles for Visual Design by Ellen Lupton
- Watercolor Painting for Beginners by Yasmina Creates
Business & Entrepreneurship
- Marketing for Creatives: Create a Successful Creative Business by Lisa Jacobs
- Productivity Masterclass: Create a Custom System that Works by Alexis Haselberger
- Financial Planning for Young Adults by Rob Carrick
Photography
- iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone by Dale McManus
- Portrait Photography: Creative Tips & Ideas for Great Portraits by Sean Dalton
- Photo Editing in Lightroom: Make Your Cityscapes Stand Out by Sean McCormack
Writing
- The Creative Writer’s Toolkit: Writing a Novel by Caroline Lawrence
- Copywriting: How to Sell with the Written Word by Alan Sharpe
- Screenwriting: Write and Pitch Your First Screenplay by Jessica Lewis
These courses are just a few examples of the high-quality content available on Skillshare. With over 30,000 courses to choose from, there’s something for everyone. So, why not explore the platform and discover your next favorite class?
Tips for Making the Most of Skillshare
Whether you’re a new or experienced user, there are several tips and strategies that can help you get the most out of your Skillshare experience:
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1. Explore a Variety of Courses
Don’t limit yourself to courses in your specific niche. Explore different topics and instructors to expand your knowledge and skills. You might discover a new passion or find creative ways to apply existing skills to different projects.
2. Participate in the Community
Engage with fellow learners and instructors by participating in discussions, giving feedback, and sharing your work. The Skillshare community is a valuable resource for networking, getting feedback, and finding inspiration.
3. Set Goals and Track Progress
Set specific goals for what you want to achieve on Skillshare, whether it’s learning a new skill or completing a project. Use the platform’s progress tracking tools to stay motivated and measure your progress.
4. Utilize Offline Learning
Take advantage of Skillshare’s offline learning mode to access courses without an internet connection. This feature can be useful for travel or when you’re away from your computer.
5. Take Advantage of Free Trials
Make use of Skillshare’s free trial periods to test out the platform and explore courses before committing to a paid membership. This can help you determine if the platform and its offerings are right for you.
Comparing Skillshare with Other Online Learning Platforms
When it comes to online learning platforms, Skillshare is one of the most popular options available. However, there are several other platforms that offer similar services and features. In this section, we will compare Skillshare with some of its top competitors to help you make an informed decision.
Coursera
Coursera is a massive open online course (MOOC) platform that offers courses from renowned universities and institutions. While Skillshare primarily focuses on creative skills, Coursera offers a wide range of courses in various categories, including business, technology, and healthcare. Coursera also offers accredited degrees, specializations, and professional certificates, which sets it apart from Skillshare. However, Coursera tends to be more expensive than Skillshare, and its courses may be more challenging for beginners.
Udemy
Udemy is another popular online learning platform that offers courses in various categories, including business, design, and personal development. Like Skillshare, Udemy also has a large community of instructors who create and teach courses. However, Udemy courses tend to be more diverse and cater to a broader audience. Udemy also offers lifetime access to course materials, which may be more appealing to some users. On the downside, Udemy courses may not be as interactive as Skillshare courses, as they primarily rely on pre-recorded video lectures.
LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com)
LinkedIn Learning is a popular online learning platform that offers courses in various categories, including business, technology, and creative skills. Like Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning has a subscription-based model and a large community of instructors. However, LinkedIn Learning offers courses that are more business-focused and geared towards professional development. It also offers integration with LinkedIn profiles, which may be useful for networking purposes. On the other hand, Skillshare may be more appealing to creative professionals who are seeking more hands-on learning experiences.
Conclusion
While there are several online learning platforms available, Skillshare offers a unique learning experience that is tailored towards creatives and artists. However, for users who are seeking a more comprehensive education in a specific field, Coursera or LinkedIn Learning may be a better fit. Meanwhile, users who are looking for a broader range of courses may prefer Udemy. Ultimately, the choice of platform depends on your learning goals, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions and concerns related to Skillshare:
1. What types of courses are available on Skillshare?
Skillshare offers a wide variety of courses in creative fields such as design, photography, writing, music, and more. They also offer courses in business, technology, and lifestyle categories.
2. How much does Skillshare cost?
Skillshare offers a free trial for 14 days, after which the cost of membership is $19 per month or $99 per year.
3. Can I cancel my Skillshare membership?
Yes, you can cancel your Skillshare membership at any time. If you cancel within the free trial period, you will not be charged.
4. Is Skillshare suitable for beginners?
Yes, Skillshare is suitable for beginners. Many courses are designed specifically for learners who are new to a particular topic.
5. Can I access Skillshare courses on my mobile device?
Yes, Skillshare has a mobile app that allows you to access courses on your mobile device.
6. Are the courses on Skillshare accredited or recognized by employers?
No, the courses on Skillshare are not accredited or recognized by employers. However, the skills and knowledge gained through these courses can be valuable for personal and professional development.
7. How can I get help if I have a problem or question?
Skillshare provides customer support via email and live chat. You can also access a help center with frequently asked questions and troubleshooting guides.
8. Can I submit my own course to Skillshare?
Yes, Skillshare allows anyone to submit a course proposal for consideration. However, they have a strict review process and not all proposals are accepted.
9. Is there a limit to how many courses I can take on Skillshare?
No, there is no limit to how many courses you can take on Skillshare. Once you have a membership, you have access to all courses on the platform.
10. Does Skillshare offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes, Skillshare offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for annual memberships. If you are not satisfied with your membership, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase.
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