Skillshare Review: Is It Worth Your Time and Money?
Skillshare is an online learning community that offers thousands of creative and business courses. It was founded in 2010 by Michael Karnjanaprakorn and Malcolm Ong, with the aim of providing affordable and accessible education to everyone. Skillshare has grown to become one of the most popular e-learning platforms, with over 12 million students and 30,000 teachers.
Understanding Skillshare is essential for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and skills. The platform offers courses in various categories, including design, business, photography, writing, and technology. Skillshare’s courses are designed to be hands-on and project-based, allowing students to learn by doing. The platform also offers classes for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced, making it suitable for anyone looking to learn something new.
Exploring Skillshare’s course offerings is a great way to discover new skills and interests. The platform offers a wide range of courses, from traditional subjects like drawing and painting to more modern topics like social media marketing and data analysis. Skillshare’s courses are also constantly updated and expanded, ensuring that students have access to the latest and most relevant information.
Understanding Skillshare
What Is Skillshare?
Skillshare is an online learning platform that offers thousands of classes on various topics, ranging from design, business, technology, and more. It was founded in 2010 by Michael Karnjanaprakorn and Malcolm Ong, with the aim of providing affordable and accessible education to anyone who wants to learn.
Skillshare’s Mission and Vision
Skillshare’s mission is to provide a platform for creators to share their knowledge and skills with others, and to empower individuals to take control of their own learning. Their vision is to create a world where anyone can learn anything, regardless of their background or location.
Skillshare Founders: Michael Karnjanaprakorn and Malcolm Ong
Michael Karnjanaprakorn and Malcolm Ong are the co-founders of Skillshare. Karnjanaprakorn is a former venture capitalist and entrepreneur, while Ong is a former product manager at Google. Together, they saw the potential of online learning and decided to create a platform that would make education accessible to everyone.
Skillshare is based in New York and has a team of over 200 employees. The platform has over 30,000 classes taught by industry experts, and has helped millions of students around the world to learn new skills and pursue their passions.
Exploring Skillshare’s Course Offerings
Skillshare is an online learning platform that offers a vast array of courses and classes in various categories. Here, we will explore some of the key aspects of Skillshare’s course offerings.
Course Categories
Skillshare’s course catalog is divided into several categories, including creative, business, design, writing, photography, illustration, music, and more. Each category contains a variety of courses that cater to different skill levels and interests. The platform also offers courses in emerging fields such as web development, animation, and UI/UX design.
Popular Courses and Subjects
Skillshare’s course catalog is constantly evolving, but some courses and subjects have remained popular over time. For instance, graphic design courses are some of the most popular on the platform. Other popular subjects include photography, illustration, and fine art.
Skillshare Originals and Exclusive Content
Skillshare offers a range of exclusive content, including Skillshare Originals. These are courses created by Skillshare in collaboration with industry experts. Skillshare Originals cover a range of topics, including creative writing, entrepreneurship, and graphic design. Read similar articles about this topic Skillshare Reviews here.
In addition to Skillshare Originals, the platform also offers exclusive content from various creators. These courses are only available on Skillshare, and they cover a wide range of topics, including web development, photography, and music.
Overall, Skillshare’s course offerings are comprehensive and diverse, catering to a range of interests and skill levels. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or improve your existing ones, Skillshare has something for everyone.
Membership and Pricing
Skillshare offers both free and premium membership options. The free membership provides access to thousands of classes, but with limited features. The premium membership, on the other hand, gives users access to all of Skillshare’s features, including offline viewing, ad-free experience, and the ability to download class materials.
Free Trial and Free Classes
Skillshare offers a 14-day free trial for new users, which allows them to explore the platform’s premium features and access to all classes. Users can also access some classes for free even without a premium membership. These free classes, however, are limited in number and may not provide access to all features.
Premium Membership Benefits
The premium membership provides access to over 27,000 classes across a variety of topics, including business, design, technology, and more. Users can also download class materials, participate in workshops, and receive feedback from instructors. Additionally, premium members can access exclusive content and participate in member-only events.
Skillshare Cost and Discounts
Skillshare offers two pricing options for its premium membership: a monthly subscription and an annual subscription. The monthly subscription costs $19 per month, while the annual subscription costs $99 per year, which is equivalent to $8.25 per month. Skillshare also offers a 50% discount for new users who sign up for an annual subscription.
In conclusion, Skillshare offers a variety of membership options to suit different needs and budgets. The platform provides access to a vast library of classes, both free and premium, across a variety of topics. With its affordable pricing options and discounts, Skillshare is a great option for anyone looking to learn new skills or improve existing ones.
The Skillshare Learning Experience
Skillshare offers an interactive and engaging learning experience for learners of all levels, from beginners to experts. With a vast library of courses, learners can choose from a variety of learning paths and projects to suit their interests and skill level.
Learning Paths and Projects
Skillshare offers a range of learning paths that are designed to help learners achieve their goals. These learning paths are curated collections of courses that are focused on specific skills and topics, such as graphic design, photography, or writing. Learners can also choose from a variety of projects that are designed to help them apply the skills they have learned in a hands-on way.
Community Interaction and Feedback
One of the unique features of Skillshare is the strong sense of community that it fosters among learners. Learners can interact with each other through discussion boards and project feedback, allowing them to receive feedback and support from their peers. This community interaction not only helps learners to stay motivated and engaged, but also provides them with valuable networking opportunities.
Mobile App and Accessibility
Skillshare’s mobile app makes it easy for learners to access their courses and projects on-the-go. The app is available on both iOS and Android, and allows learners to download courses for offline viewing. Skillshare is also committed to making its platform accessible to all learners, and offers closed captioning for all of its courses.
Overall, the Skillshare learning experience is designed to be engaging, interactive, and accessible for learners of all levels. With a strong sense of community and a focus on hands-on learning, Skillshare is an excellent choice for anyone looking to develop new skills or further their education.
Skillshare for Creators and Teachers
Skillshare is an excellent platform for creators and teachers who want to share their knowledge and skills with others. The platform offers a wide range of courses, and anyone can become an instructor and create their own courses.
Becoming an Instructor
Becoming an instructor on Skillshare is a straightforward process. All you need to do is create an account, fill out your profile, and submit a course proposal. Skillshare will review your proposal, and if it meets their guidelines, you can start creating your course.
Creating and Publishing Courses
Skillshare provides instructors with all the tools they need to create and publish high-quality courses. The platform has a user-friendly interface, and instructors can easily upload video lessons, create assignments, and interact with students. Skillshare also offers resources and support to help instructors create engaging and effective courses.
Teacher’s Earnings and Growth
Skillshare offers instructors a way to earn money by teaching courses. Instructors can earn money through a royalty system, which pays them a percentage of the revenue generated by their courses. Skillshare also has a Partner Program, which offers additional revenue opportunities for instructors.
In addition to earning money, Skillshare also offers instructors opportunities for growth and career development. Instructors can build their reputation, gain exposure, and connect with other instructors and students on the platform. They can also use Skillshare to build their own brand, create a following, and launch their own business or career in teaching or entrepreneurship.
Overall, Skillshare is an excellent platform for creators and teachers who want to share their knowledge and skills with others. The platform offers a range of resources and support to help instructors create high-quality courses and earn money while building their careers.
Comparing Skillshare with Other Platforms
Skillshare vs. Coursera
Coursera is one of the most popular online learning platforms that offers a wide range of courses. While Skillshare focuses on creative skills, Coursera offers courses in various fields, including computer science, business, and data science. Coursera courses are taught by professors from top universities, making them more academic and rigorous than Skillshare courses. Coursera also offers certificates and degrees, which can be valuable for career advancement. However, Coursera courses are often more expensive than Skillshare courses.
Skillshare vs. Udemy
Udemy is another popular online learning platform that offers courses in various fields. Udemy courses are created by experts and professionals, making them more practical and applicable to real-world situations. Udemy also offers a wide range of courses, including creative skills, business, and personal development. However, Udemy courses are often more expensive than Skillshare courses, and they do not offer a subscription model like Skillshare.
Skillshare vs. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is a professional development platform that offers courses in various fields, including business, technology, and creative skills. LinkedIn Learning courses are taught by industry experts and professionals, making them more practical and applicable to real-world situations. LinkedIn Learning also offers certificates and badges, which can be valuable for career advancement. However, LinkedIn Learning courses are often more expensive than Skillshare courses, and they do not offer a community-driven model like Skillshare.
Skillshare vs. MasterClass
MasterClass is a unique online learning platform that offers courses taught by celebrities and experts in various fields, including cooking, music, and writing. MasterClass courses are more inspirational and aspirational than Skillshare courses, as they focus on the personal stories and experiences of the instructors. MasterClass also offers a wide range of courses, including creative skills and personal development. However, MasterClass courses are often more expensive than Skillshare courses, and they do not offer a community-driven model like Skillshare.
In conclusion, Skillshare is a great option for those looking to learn creative skills in a community-driven environment. While other platforms like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and MasterClass offer different courses and features, Skillshare’s focus on community and affordability make it a unique and valuable option for online learning.
Skillshare for Businesses and Teams
Skillshare offers a range of benefits for businesses and teams looking to improve their skills and knowledge. Here are some of the key features that make Skillshare a great option for corporate training:
Corporate Training and Team Plans
Skillshare offers team plans that are tailored to meet the needs of businesses and teams. These plans provide access to a range of online courses that cover a variety of topics, including business, design, technology, and more. With team plans, managers can easily assign courses to team members and track their progress.
Team plans also come with advanced features such as priority support, custom branding, and the ability to create private groups and discussions. This makes it easy for businesses to create a customized learning experience that meets their specific needs.
Analytics and Reporting for Managers
Skillshare provides managers with detailed analytics and reporting tools that allow them to track the progress of their team members. Managers can see which courses their team members have completed, how much time they’ve spent on each course, and how well they’ve performed on quizzes and assignments.
This information can be used to identify knowledge gaps and areas where team members may need additional training. Managers can also use the reporting tools to track the ROI of their training programs and make data-driven decisions about future training initiatives.
Overall, Skillshare is a powerful tool for businesses and teams looking to improve their skills and knowledge. With its extensive library of online courses, advanced team plans, and detailed analytics and reporting tools, Skillshare is a great option for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Skillshare boasts a large community of users, with over 12 million students and 30,000 teachers. Many of these users have shared their experiences and feedback on the platform, providing valuable insights for those considering joining Skillshare.
Community Reviews and Ratings
One of the most notable features of Skillshare is its community-driven approach to learning. Users can leave reviews and ratings on each class they take, allowing others to see what they thought of the course before enrolling.
Overall, the community reviews on Skillshare are positive, with many users praising the platform for its affordability, quality of content, and ease of use. Some users have noted that the platform can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of courses available, but most agree that the search and filtering features help to mitigate this issue.
Success Stories and Case Studies
In addition to community reviews, Skillshare also shares success stories and case studies from users who have achieved their goals through the platform. These stories showcase the diverse range of skills and interests that can be pursued on Skillshare, from graphic design to cooking to entrepreneurship.
One notable success story is that of Alex, who used Skillshare to learn web development and eventually landed a job at a tech company. Another user, Sarah, used Skillshare to launch her own jewelry business and now sells her designs online. These success stories demonstrate the potential for Skillshare to help users achieve their goals and turn their passions into careers.
Overall, the user reviews and testimonials for Skillshare are overwhelmingly positive, with many users citing the platform’s affordability, community-driven approach, and diverse range of courses as its key strengths.
Additional Features and Resources
Skillshare offers a range of additional features and resources to enhance the learning experience for its users. These features include workshops and live sessions, discussion groups and forums, and the Skillshare blog and social media.
Workshops and Live Sessions
Skillshare offers a variety of workshops and live sessions that allow users to interact with instructors and other students in real-time. These sessions are a great way to gain hands-on experience and receive feedback on your work. They cover a wide range of topics, from creativity and personal growth to technical skills like coding and graphic design.
Discussion Groups and Forums
Skillshare has a robust community of learners who are eager to share their knowledge and experiences with others. Discussion groups and forums are a great way to connect with other students and instructors, ask questions, and get feedback on your work. These groups cover a wide range of topics, from learning paths and career development to specific skills like photography and writing. Read similar articles about Skillshare Affiliate.
Skillshare Blog and Social Media
The Skillshare blog and social media channels are a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and tips in creativity and personal growth. The blog features articles, interviews, and tutorials from Skillshare instructors and other experts in the field. The social media channels provide a platform for users to connect with each other and share their work.
Overall, Skillshare’s additional features and resources provide users with a comprehensive learning experience that goes beyond just watching videos. Whether you’re looking to connect with other learners, gain hands-on experience, or stay up-to-date on the latest trends, Skillshare has something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
After exploring Skillshare, it’s clear that the platform has a lot to offer for those looking to expand their skills and knowledge. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
Pros and Cons of Skillshare
One of the main benefits of Skillshare is the vast selection of courses available. With over 30,000 classes in a variety of subjects, users are sure to find something that interests them. The platform also offers a user-friendly interface and the ability to learn at your own pace.
On the downside, not all courses are created equal. Some classes may lack depth or be poorly structured, making it difficult for users to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, while the monthly subscription fee is relatively affordable, some courses require additional fees for materials or projects.
Is Skillshare Worth It?
Ultimately, whether or not Skillshare is worth it depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re looking to learn a new skill or explore a new subject, Skillshare is a great place to start. However, it’s important to carefully research courses before enrolling to ensure that they meet your expectations.
Overall, Skillshare is a valuable resource for those looking to expand their knowledge and skills. With a wide range of courses and a user-friendly platform, it’s a great option for anyone looking to learn something new.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of courses can one find on Skillshare?
Skillshare offers a wide range of courses covering topics such as design, photography, business, writing, technology, and more. Users can find courses on specific software programs, as well as more general courses on topics like marketing or entrepreneurship.
How does Skillshare compare to Udemy in terms of course offerings and quality?
While both Skillshare and Udemy offer a variety of courses, Skillshare is known for its focus on creative courses such as design and photography. Udemy, on the other hand, offers a wider range of courses including more technical and business-focused topics. In terms of quality, both platforms have highly rated courses, but it ultimately depends on the individual instructor and course.
What are common complaints users have about Skillshare?
Some common complaints from users include difficulty navigating the platform, limited course offerings in certain categories, and occasional technical issues with videos. Additionally, some users have reported issues with canceling their subscription or being charged after canceling.
What is the monthly subscription cost for Skillshare?
The monthly subscription cost for Skillshare is $19 per month. However, users can save money by signing up for an annual subscription which costs $99 per year.
Are there any free courses available on Skillshare, and if so, what are their limitations?
Yes, Skillshare offers a selection of free courses for users to access. However, these courses are limited in terms of content and do not offer the same level of access and features as paid courses. Additionally, free courses may not be available indefinitely and are subject to change.
What has been the general user sentiment towards Skillshare in recent reviews?
Overall, users have generally positive reviews of Skillshare, with many praising the platform for its wide range of courses and affordable pricing. However, some users have reported issues with the platform’s user interface and customer service.