Are you considering pursuing a tech certification but wondering whether a self-paced course or an instructor-led course is the better choice? While self-paced courses offer flexibility, research shows that instructor-led courses often lead to higher pass rates and more success for those seeking certification. In fact, according to CompTIA, individuals who took instructor-led courses had a 93% pass rate, compared to only a 66% pass rate for those who relied solely on self-paced courses.
So why invest in an instructor-led course? Let's dive into the benefits and find out.
1. Structure Learning Environment
One of the main reasons why students do not complete online courses is a lack of motivation. Self-paced courses require a high level of self-discipline and motivation to complete, which can be challenging for some students.
Instructor-led courses offer a structured learning environment that can help you stay focused and on track. With a clear syllabus and set study schedule, you'll be able to manage your time more effectively and ensure that you're covering all the necessary material before the exam.
In addition, instructors can provide feedback and guidance to help you improve your understanding of the material and identify areas where you may need additional support.
2. Personalized Attention
Self-paced courses often lack the support and guidance that traditional classroom courses provide, which can make it difficult for students to stay motivated and complete the course.
Instructor-led courses offer personalized attention that can be beneficial for those who are struggling to understand certain concepts or need extra guidance. Instructors are able to provide one-on-one attention and can tailor their teaching methods to meet each learner’s individual needs. This personalized attention can help learners stay motivated and focused on their goals.
3. Improved Retention
Self-paced courses aren’t always designed to the highest of standards. Because of this, students may find it difficult to navigate and complete without a live instruction or peer-to-peer conversations.
Instructor-led courses have been found to be more effective in helping learners retain information than self-paced courses. This is because instructors are able to break down complex topics into smaller chunks of information that are easier for learners to digest. Additionally, instructors are able to provide real-time feedback which helps reinforce the material being taught and makes it easier for learners to remember what they have learned.
4. Increased Engagement
Self-paced courses can bring some inherent learning barriers because of the nature of this educational paradigm. These barriers can include a lack of interaction with instructors and peers, limited feedback, and a lack of structure.
Instructor-led courses tend to be more engaging than self-paced ones as they involve interactive activities such as group discussions, role plays, and other hands-on activities that keep learners engaged throughout the course. Additionally, instructors can use various techniques such as storytelling or case studies to make the material more interesting and relevant for the learner.
5. Networking Opportunities
One of the greatest benefits of an instructor-led course is that it provides an opportunity for networking with other students in the class. Learners can share ideas, ask questions, and gain valuable insights from their peers which can help them better understand certain concepts or even prepare them for interviews after completing the course.
Overall, the pass rate of self-paced courses can be affected by a variety of factors, including motivation, course design, support, time management, difficulty level, and learning barriers. Instructor-led courses can be a valuable alternative for those seeking to pursue a tech certification.
At SkillStorm, we offer instructor-led certification courses that provide all of these benefits and more. With expert instructors, real-world projects, and collaborative learning environments, our courses can help you achieve higher pass rates and greater success in your tech career. If you're considering pursuing a certification, consider investing in an instructor-led course with SkillStorm to take your career to the next level.
