About the best courses on skillshare
What types of courses does Skillshare offer
Skillshare is an online learning platform that focuses on providing a wide array of creative and practical skills through video-based courses. Founded in 2010 by Michael Karnjanaprakorn and Malcom Ong, the platform has grown significantly, boasting over 25,000 classes taught by more than 8,000 instructors, and attracting a community of over four million students.
Overview of Skillshare
- Course Variety: Skillshare offers a diverse range of courses across various categories, including design, illustration, photography, business, technology, and personal development. This includes niche topics such as creative writing, UI/UX design, and even gardening.
- Learning Format: Courses are primarily video-based and often include project assignments that encourage students to apply what they’ve learned. This hands-on approach helps reinforce skills and fosters a sense of community as students can share their projects and receive feedback from peers.
- Membership Model: Skillshare operates on a subscription basis, offering a free trial period (typically one month) for new users. After the trial, a premium membership costs approximately $13.99 per month or $167.88 annually, providing unlimited access to all courses and additional features like offline viewing.
Community and Interaction
Skillshare emphasizes community engagement, allowing students to interact with instructors and fellow learners. The platform supports collaborative projects and discussion forums, enhancing the learning experience through peer feedback and shared insights.
Teaching Opportunities
For those interested in teaching, Skillshare provides a platform for creators to develop and share their courses. Instructors can earn income based on the watch-time of their classes, making it an attractive option for individuals looking to monetize their expertise.
Advantages
- Affordable Pricing: Skillshare’s subscription model is generally considered cost-effective, especially for those looking to explore multiple subjects.
- Diverse Course Offerings: The platform’s focus on creative skills and niche topics sets it apart from more technical platforms like Udemy.
- Community Support: The interactive nature of the platform fosters a supportive learning environment, enhancing motivation and engagement among students.
Disadvantages
- Quality Variation: As courses are created by users, the quality can vary significantly, with some courses being less comprehensive than others.
- No Accreditation: Skillshare courses do not carry formal accreditation, which may be a consideration for learners seeking recognized qualifications.
In summary, Skillshare serves as a versatile platform for individuals seeking to enhance their creative skills or explore new interests. Its combination of a broad course catalog, community engagement, and flexible learning options makes it a popular choice among online learners.
What types of courses does Skillshare offer?
What types of courses does Skillshare offer
Skillshare offers a diverse range of online courses across various categories, catering primarily to creative and professional development. Here’s a detailed overview of the types of courses available on the platform:
Course Categories
Skillshare organizes its courses into several main categories, each encompassing a wide array of specific topics:
- Art & Design
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Animation
- Photography
- Fine Arts (e.g., painting, drawing)
- Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Marketing (including social media strategies)
- Business Analytics
- Freelancing and E-commerce
- Technology
- Web Development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
- UI/UX Design
- Programming (various languages)
- Creative Writing
- Copywriting
- Creative Writing (e.g., personal essays, storytelling)
- Lifestyle
- Cooking and Food
- Home Improvement and Interior Design
- Personal Development and Productivity
- Music
- Music Production
- Instrument Lessons (e.g., guitar, singing)
- Film & Video
- Video Editing
- Filmmaking
- Gaming
- Game Design and Development
Unique Features
Skillshare distinguishes itself by offering:
- Short, Practical Courses: Many courses are designed to be concise and focused, often lasting under an hour, making them easily digestible for learners with busy schedules.
- Hands-On Projects: Courses typically include projects that allow students to apply what they’ve learned, fostering a practical learning environment.
- Diverse Instructors: Courses are taught by a wide range of instructors, from industry professionals to passionate amateurs, creating a rich tapestry of learning experiences.
- Skillshare Originals: These are in-house produced courses that ensure high-quality content, alongside community-driven courses that cover niche topics.
- Learning Paths: This feature offers sequential classes that guide learners through a series of related topics, enhancing the learning experience by providing a structured approach.
Popular Course Examples
Some of the popular courses on Skillshare include:
- Graphic Design Basics
- YouTube for Beginners
- Mastering Productivity
- Learn Guitar: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Introduction to Procreate for Digital Illustration
Overall, Skillshare’s extensive catalog—with over 30,000 courses—provides learners with a wealth of options to explore their interests and develop new skills in a flexible and engaging manner.
What are the benefits of Skillshare’s Premium membership
What are the benefits of Skillshare’s Premium membership
Skillshare’s Premium membership offers a variety of benefits that enhance the learning experience for subscribers. Here are the key advantages:
Unlimited Access to Courses
- Extensive Library: Premium members have access to over 35,000 classes across diverse categories, including creative writing, graphic design, photography, marketing, and more. This allows learners to explore a wide range of subjects at their own pace.
Offline Learning
- Downloadable Content: Subscribers can download classes to watch offline, making it convenient for learning on-the-go, especially in situations where internet access is limited.
Ad-Free Experience
- Seamless Learning: The Premium membership provides an ad-free viewing experience, allowing users to focus entirely on their courses without interruptions.
Community Engagement
- Student Community: Premium members can participate in Skillshare’s vibrant online community, where they can share projects, receive feedback, and collaborate with peers.
Exclusive Discounts
- Partner Discounts: Membership includes discounts on various creative tools and platforms, such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Squarespace, providing additional value beyond the courses.
Interactive Learning
- Project-Based Classes: Many courses are structured around hands-on projects, encouraging practical application of skills learned and enhancing the learning experience.
Flexibility and Accessibility
- Multi-Device Access: Skillshare can be accessed on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, allowing learners to engage with content anytime and anywhere.
Overall, Skillshare’s Premium membership is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their skills in a flexible and engaging manner, making it particularly beneficial for creatives and lifelong learners.
Are Skillshare courses suitable for beginners?
Are Skillshare courses suitable for beginners
Skillshare courses can be suitable for beginners, but their effectiveness largely depends on the specific course and instructor. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect:
Course Variety and Structure
Skillshare offers a vast array of courses, with over 30,000 options covering topics such as art, design, photography, business, and more. Many of these courses are designed with beginners in mind, often labeled as suitable for all levels.Courses typically consist of short videos ranging from 1 to 4 hours in total, divided into manageable segments. This structure allows learners to progress at their own pace, making it easier for beginners to digest the content. Additionally, many courses include assignments that encourage practical application of the skills learned, fostering an interactive learning environment.
Quality of Content
The quality of Skillshare courses can vary significantly. While many courses are professionally produced and well-received, some may not clearly indicate whether they are aimed at beginners or more advanced learners. This can lead to confusion if a beginner selects a course that assumes prior knowledge. Reviews suggest that while there are many excellent beginner courses, some content may be too advanced or lacking in foundational instruction.
Community and Support
Skillshare emphasizes community interaction, allowing students to share their work and receive feedback. This aspect can be particularly beneficial for beginners, as it provides opportunities for peer learning and support. However, the level of instructor engagement can vary; some instructors actively participate in discussions, while others may not.
Pros and Cons for Beginners
Pros:
- Wide Range of Topics: Suitable for various interests and skill levels.
- Flexible Learning: Short, digestible videos allow for self-paced learning.
- Community Support: Opportunities for interaction and feedback from peers.
Cons:
- Variable Course Quality: Not all courses are beginner-friendly; some may assume prior knowledge.
- Lack of Certificates: Skillshare does not offer certificates upon course completion, which may be a drawback for some learners.
In summary, Skillshare can be a suitable platform for beginners, especially for those interested in creative fields. However, it is essential for learners to carefully review course descriptions and ratings to ensure they select courses that match their skill level. Trying out the platform through a free trial can also help beginners gauge whether it meets their learning needs before committing to a subscription.
What are the most popular courses on Skillshare?
What are the most popular courses on Skillshare
Here are some of the most popular and best Skillshare courses:
Top Skillshare Courses Overall
- Graphic Design Basics: Core principles for visual design by Ellen Lupton (161,000+ students).
- Intro to Procreate: Illustrating on the iPad (UPDATED for 2023) by Brooke Glaser (114,000+ students).
- iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone by Dale McManus (161,000+ students).
- Mastering Productivity: Create a Custom System that Works by Thomas Frank (137,000+ students).
These courses are led by excellent instructors, have been taken by at least 100,000 students, and have received very positive feedback. They are some of the top Skillshare courses of all time.
Most Popular Skillshare Courses by Category
- Graphic Design Basics: Core Principles for Visual Design by Ellen Lupton
Enrollments: 161,000
This course covers essential principles of graphic design, making it ideal for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. - The Art & Science of Drawing – Basic Skills/Getting Started with Drawing by Brent Eviston
Enrollments: 98,000
A foundational course that teaches drawing techniques, perfect for beginners and those wanting to improve their drawing skills. - Mastering Productivity: Create a Custom System that Works by Thomas Frank
Enrollments: 137,000
This course focuses on productivity techniques and systems to help learners manage their time effectively. - Copywriting For Beginners: How To Write Web Copy That Sells Without Being Cheesy by Jesse Forest
Enrollments: 33,000+
A practical guide for aspiring copywriters, this course teaches how to create compelling web copy. - YouTube for Beginners – How to Start & Grow Your YouTube Channel by Ali Abdaal
Enrollments: 16,000+
This course provides insights into building a successful YouTube channel, covering everything from content creation to audience engagement. - iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone
This course teaches techniques for capturing professional-quality photos using an iPhone, appealing to both beginners and seasoned photographers. - Learn Guitar: The Complete Beginners Guide by Marc Barnacle
Enrollments: 13,000+
A comprehensive introduction to playing guitar, suitable for complete beginners. - Etsy Launch: How To Open An Etsy Shop Like A Professional Seller by Tiffany Emery
Enrollments: 8,000+
This course guides learners through the process of setting up and running a successful Etsy shop.
Some other popular courses cover topics like calligraphy, watercolor painting, character design, social media strategy, and more.
When choosing a Skillshare course, consider your skill level, interests, and goals. Look for classes with positive reviews, clear lesson plans, and experienced instructors. Skillshare courses are self-paced and allow you to interact with the instructor and other students.
Can I download Skillshare courses to study offline?
Can I download Skillshare courses to study offline
Yes, you can download Skillshare courses for offline viewing and study. Here are the key points:
Downloading Courses with the Skillshare App
- Skillshare Premium members can download courses for offline viewing within the Skillshare mobile app.
- Downloaded courses will only be accessible as long as your Premium membership is active.
- Once your membership expires, you will lose access to downloaded courses until you reactivate Premium.
Downloading Courses Using Third-Party Tools
- There are third-party tools like Allavsoft that allow downloading Skillshare videos in formats like MP4, MP3, etc.
- These tools can batch download multiple courses and are compatible with various devices.
- However, using these tools may violate Skillshare’s terms of service and could be considered illegal in some regions.
Limitations
- Skillshare courses cannot be purchased individually – you need a Premium membership to access most courses.
- Downloaded courses are limited to the Skillshare app and cannot be transferred to other devices.
- Using third-party tools to download courses is risky and not recommended.
In summary, the official way to download Skillshare courses for offline viewing is through the Skillshare mobile app as a Premium member. However, this access is limited to the duration of your active membership. Using third-party tools to download courses is possible but not advised.
How does Skillshare’s pricing compare to other platforms like Udemy or Coursera?
How does Skillshare’s pricing compare to other platforms like Udemy or Coursera
Skillshare’s pricing structure is notably different from that of other popular online learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera. Here’s a detailed comparison of their pricing models and offerings:
Skillshare Pricing
- Subscription Model: Skillshare operates on a subscription basis, offering unlimited access to its classes.
- Monthly Subscription: Approximately $15 per month.
- Annual Subscription: Approximately $99 per year, which averages out to about $8.25 per month.
- Course Access: Subscribers can access all classes on the platform without additional costs, which includes over 35,000 classes focused primarily on creative and business skills.
Udemy Pricing
- Pay-Per-Course Model: Udemy does not offer a subscription service. Instead, users pay for each course individually.
- Course Prices: Courses typically range from $9 to several hundred dollars, but frequent discounts can significantly lower these prices (e.g., courses originally priced at $200 can often be found for around $10 during sales).
- Total Cost: For the price of a Skillshare annual subscription, you could purchase about 10 courses on Udemy, depending on the discounts available.
Coursera Pricing
- Subscription and Individual Course Pricing: Coursera offers both individual course purchases and subscription plans.
- Coursera Plus: Provides access to over 7,000 courses for a monthly fee ranging from $35 to $55.
- Individual Courses: Prices can vary widely, with some courses costing between $50 and $150, and degree programs costing significantly more (e.g., $10,000 to $60,000 for full degrees).
- Course Format: Coursera is known for its partnerships with universities and offers accredited courses, professional certificates, and full degree programs, which can justify the higher price point for many learners
Summary of Comparisons
- Skillshare is best suited for learners who prefer a wide variety of creative and business classes under one subscription, making it cost-effective for those interested in multiple courses.
- Udemy is ideal for users who want to pay for specific courses and take advantage of sales, especially if they are looking for niche topics.
- Coursera is geared towards individuals seeking formal education or professional certification from recognized institutions, often at a higher cost.
In conclusion, the choice between these platforms largely depends on individual learning preferences and goals. Skillshare’s model is more economical for those wanting broad access to creative courses, while Udemy and Coursera cater to more targeted learning and formal qualifications.
What is Skillshare’s refund policy?
What is Skillshare’s refund policy
Skillshare’s refund policy is quite specific and has several key points that users should be aware of:
Refund Eligibility
- Annual Membership Only: Refunds are only available for users who have purchased an annual premium membership. Monthly memberships do not qualify for refunds.
- Timeframe for Request: To be eligible for a refund, you must contact Skillshare within seven days of the original charge. This applies to charges made after a 7-day free trial.
- One Refund Policy: Skillshare allows only one refund per customer. If you have already received a refund in the past, you will not be eligible for another.
- No Refunds on Renewals: Refunds are not provided for membership renewal charges, regardless of the time elapsed since the renewal.
How to Request a Refund
- Contact Skillshare: You can request a refund by emailing Skillshare at help@skillshare.com. It’s advisable to include your reason for cancellation and the refund request in your message.
- Use the Website: After canceling your membership, you can submit a refund request via the Contact Us form on the Skillshare website. Make sure to select the Billing Question option from the dropdown menu.
- Response Time: While the exact time for processing refunds can vary, it is generally expected that Skillshare will respond to your request within a few business days.
Additional Notes
- If you signed up for a free trial and were charged after the trial ended, you are still eligible for a refund if you act within the specified timeframe.
- Skillshare does not offer refunds on charges made after a 14-day or longer free trial.
In summary, if you are considering requesting a refund from Skillshare, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and act promptly within the specified timeframe.
Which Skillshare Course is Best for Beginners?
When looking for the best Skillshare courses for beginners, several standout options cater to various interests and skill sets. Here are some of the top recommendations based on popularity, instructor quality, and content relevance:
Which Skillshare Course is Best for Beginners
Recommended Skillshare Courses for Beginners
Graphic Design Basics: Core Principles for Visual Design by Ellen Lupton
- Overview: This course is perfect for those new to graphic design. It covers essential design principles that can be applied across various projects.
- Popularity: Over 161,000 students have enrolled, indicating strong demand and positive feedback.
- Key Skills: Visual design fundamentals, typography, color theory, and layout principles.
The Art & Science of Drawing: Basic Skills/Getting Started with Drawing by Brent Eviston
- Overview: A comprehensive introduction to drawing, this course teaches foundational skills such as shape analysis, proportions, and shading techniques.
- Popularity: With nearly 100,000 students, it’s highly regarded for its thorough approach to drawing.
- Key Skills: Basic drawing techniques, observational skills, and artistic confidence.
YouTube for Beginners: How to Start & Grow Your YouTube Channel by Ali Abdaal
- Overview: Ideal for aspiring content creators, this course guides beginners through the process of launching and growing a YouTube channel.
- Popularity: Over 16,000 students have taken this course, reflecting its effectiveness in helping new creators.
- Key Skills: Content creation, video editing basics, and audience engagement strategies.
Learn Guitar: The Complete Beginners Guide by Marc Barnacle
- Overview: This course is designed for those who want to learn guitar from scratch, covering essential techniques and songs.
- Popularity: Approximately 13,000 students have enrolled, making it a popular choice for music enthusiasts.
- Key Skills: Basic chords, strumming patterns, and music theory for beginners.
Copywriting For Beginners: How To Write Web Copy That Sells Without Being Cheesy by Jesse Forest
- Overview: This course focuses on teaching the art of persuasive writing, particularly for web content.
- Popularity: With over 33,000 students, it has received positive reviews for its practical approach to copywriting.
- Key Skills: Writing effective web copy, understanding audience psychology, and crafting compelling calls to action.
Choosing the Right Course
When selecting a course on Skillshare, consider the following:
- Personal Interests: Choose a course that aligns with your passions or career goals.
- Course Reviews: Look for courses with high enrollment numbers and positive feedback from previous students.
- Instructor Credentials: Research the instructor’s background and experience to ensure quality content.
- Course Structure: Review the syllabus or course description to understand what topics will be covered and whether they meet your learning needs.
Skillshare offers a diverse range of courses, making it easy for beginners to find something that resonates with them. With a 30-day free trial available, you can explore various classes to determine which ones are the best fit for your learning journey.
Can I get a certificate after completing a Skillshare course?
Can I get a certificate after completing a Skillshare course
Skillshare does not provide traditional certificates of completion for its courses. However, there is a distinction worth noting regarding “class certificates.”
Class Certificates
- Earning Certificates: Skillshare offers a type of class certificate that can be obtained after completing a class and submitting a project related to that class. This certificate includes the member’s name, the class title, the issue date, the instructor’s name, the class length, and a unique certificate ID.
- Purpose: These class certificates are more of a recognition of participation rather than an accredited certification. They serve to acknowledge that a member has engaged with the course material and completed a project, which can be shared on social media or included in a portfolio.
Limitations
- No Accreditation: The certificates provided by Skillshare are not accredited, meaning they do not carry the same weight as those from formal educational institutions. This is an important consideration for anyone looking to use these certificates for professional advancement or academic credit.
- Motivation vs. Formal Recognition: While the class certificates can be a motivational tool and a way to showcase learning accomplishments, they lack the formal recognition that many learners seek from online courses.
In summary, while you can earn a class certificate from Skillshare after completing a course and submitting a project, these certificates are not equivalent to traditional completion certificates and do not offer any formal accreditation.
How do Skillshare’s community features compare to Udemy’s?
How do Skillshare’s community features compare to Udemy’s
When comparing the community features of Skillshare and Udemy, it’s essential to understand how each platform fosters interaction among users and supports collaborative learning.
Skillshare Community Features
Collaborative Learning Environment
- Project-Based Learning: Skillshare emphasizes a community-driven approach where learners engage in project-based classes. This format encourages students to share their projects and receive feedback from peers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
- Discussion Forums: Each class includes discussion boards where students can ask questions, share insights, and interact with both instructors and fellow learners. This feature enhances the learning experience by allowing for real-time feedback and support.
- Class Projects: Students are encouraged to complete projects that they can upload for review. This not only promotes accountability but also allows for constructive criticism from the community, enhancing the learning process.
- Teams Feature: Skillshare offers a “Teams” feature, allowing organizations to create groups that can collaborate on projects and share resources, further strengthening community ties.
- Social Networking: Users can follow each other, enabling them to stay updated on classmates’ activities and projects, which promotes a sense of belonging and community engagement.
Udemy Community Features
Individual Learning Focus
- Q&A Sections: Each course on Udemy features a Q&A section where students can pose questions to instructors or engage with other learners. However, the interaction tends to be less dynamic compared to Skillshare, as it is primarily focused on course content rather than community building.
- Community Section: Udemy has a broader community section on its website that includes discussion forums and blogs. While this provides a platform for interaction, it is less integrated into the course experience compared to Skillshare’s project-based approach.
- Limited Social Interaction: Although Udemy allows students to communicate through course reviews and the Q&A feature, it lacks the robust social networking capabilities found in Skillshare. This can make it feel more isolated, as learners often work through courses independently.
- Instructor Interaction: Udemy does provide some opportunities for interaction with instructors, but the level of engagement is generally less frequent than in Skillshare, where community feedback is a core component of the learning experience.
Comparison Summary
| Feature | Skillshare | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Approach | Project-based, collaborative | Individual, course-focused |
| Discussion Forums | Integrated into each class | Q&A sections for each course |
| Community Engagement | Strong emphasis on peer feedback and support | Limited interaction, more instructor-led |
| Social Features | Users can follow each other, share projects | Basic interaction through reviews and Q&A |
| Teams Feature | Yes, for organizational collaboration | No |
In conclusion, Skillshare excels in fostering a community-oriented learning environment, encouraging collaboration and peer interaction through its project-based classes and social features. In contrast, Udemy offers a more traditional learning experience focused on individual course consumption, with less emphasis on community engagement. If community and collaborative learning are priorities, Skillshare may be the better choice, while Udemy may appeal more to those who prefer self-paced, independent study.
Are there any specific community tools on Skillshare that enhance learning
Are there any specific community tools on Skillshare that enhance learning
Skillshare offers several community tools designed to enhance the learning experience for its users. These features promote interaction, collaboration, and feedback among learners, making the platform more engaging. Here are some specific community tools that stand out:
Community Tools on Skillshare
1. Skillshare Groups
- Skillshare has established groups categorized into four main areas: Creative, Technology, Business, and Lifestyle. These groups allow members to connect with others who share similar interests, facilitating collaboration and discussion. Members can share ideas, seek feedback, and engage in discussions relevant to their fields.
- Only premium members can post in these groups, while free members can view posts and engage in discussions. This structure encourages a more active participation from those who are committed to their learning journey.
2. Student Projects
- Each course on Skillshare requires students to complete a project, which they can then share with the community. This feature acts like a social media platform where students can upload their work, receive likes, and comments from peers. It encourages learners to showcase their skills and gain constructive feedback, enhancing their learning experience.
- The ability to share projects fosters a sense of community and accountability, motivating students to complete courses and engage with others.
3. Skillshare CromaCourse
- The CromaCourse is a relatively new initiative that consists of exclusive four-week courses. These courses include live Q&A sessions and personalized feedback from instructors, allowing for deeper engagement and interaction within a smaller group setting. This format promotes a more intimate learning environment where students can connect with instructors and peers.
4. Discussion Boards
- Each class includes a discussion board where students can ask questions and interact with both instructors and fellow learners. This feature enhances the learning experience by allowing for real-time feedback and support, making it easier for students to clarify doubts and share insights.
5. Learning Paths
- Skillshare offers curated learning paths that consist of a series of related courses. This feature helps learners navigate their educational journey by providing structured guidance on topics of interest, making it easier to progress through interconnected subjects.
In summary, Skillshare’s community tools, including groups, student projects, CromaCourses, discussion boards, and learning paths, create an interactive and supportive environment that enhances the overall learning experience. These features encourage collaboration, feedback, and engagement, making Skillshare a unique platform for learners seeking to develop their skills in a community-oriented setting.
Conclusion
Continuous learning has become an essential part of personal and professional growth, and online platforms like Skillshare have made it more accessible than ever. Skillshare offers a wide range of courses, taught by industry professionals, at an affordable price. The platform’s community and interactive features enhance the learning experience, making it a popular choice among learners.
While Skillshare certificates may not hold the same weight as traditional credentials, they still have value in showcasing your dedication to continuous learning. Skillshare is just one of many online course platforms available, and it’s important to consider your own learning goals and preferences when making a decision.
In the end, whether Skillshare is worth your time and money depends on your individual needs and expectations. However, based on the positive reviews and testimonials, as well as the features and benefits discussed in this review, Skillshare is undoubtedly a platform worth exploring for anyone seeking to acquire new skills and knowledge.
Ready to unlock your potential? Join Skillshare today and embark on a journey of continuous learning!
