I was recently approached by a fellow Udemy user and he wanted to know a few things about my experience with Udemy and the benefits of teaching using online mediums rather than traditional.
Here is the interview:
Why publish online content?
I recently left the “full-time, 9-5” work environment because I wanted to set out on my own and work for myself as a “location-independent” freelancer. Given the nature of freelancing, there can be “ups and downs” in regards to income, so I wanted to find out creative ways to smooth out the low periods. I wanted to teach what I do well, and what I’m passionate about (which is web design & development), but I also wanted to maintain the “location-independence” element, rather than having to be physically present and trading time for money. Finding Udemy seemed to be the perfect medium.
What advantages/disadvantages over traditional mediums?
The Udemy medium is almost entirely advantageous. I suppose one could say that being in person would be more efficient for “one-on-one” time, however, Udemy features “live sessions” where one can help people in real-time using live video. I personally haven’t come across any major disadvantages.
What are your challenges?
Creating a solid course curriculum. Perfecting the wording of the course descriptions and details.
Do people typically finish the courses? Why or why not.
I’d say about 50% of my students have completed my course front-to-back, and the rest are still doing the course. There may be some of them who have stopped entirely, but they have access to the course for life, so they may have personal reasons for putting their studying on hold. That’s the beauty of learning at-your-own-pace online
Do you engage your students with anything more? Why?
I regularly update my course with new content & features, and post an announcement to my students that there is new content to be accessed. I want for my students to know that I’m doing this because I want to add value to their educational experience and share something great with them, rather than just for profit.
How do you measure the experience/outcome of your students?
I ask for the students to leave reviews and ratings, so I could know their thoughts on the course and if they thought it was valuable to them. So far, I’ve received no negative feedback, some constructive feedback to improve the course (which I do regularly), and excellent feedback. Of the 51 students (so far), none have asked for a refund, which I think is a great thing.
If you’re interested in taking the course yourself, I highly recommend it. And because you’re awesome, I’d like to give you 75% off my course, all you have to do is click to button below to get your coupon code:
Happy Coding!