Are Udemy classes accredited? No. Should you be using their online learning services? Probably.
What Is Udemy?
Udemy is an online learning platform dedicated to professional and self-development by offering virtual classes in different concentrations. With a multitude of subjects to choose from, you can study everything from the history of ancient Rome to IT and software.
Why Online Learning?
Online learning is a great way to gain professional skills to add to your resume. You can even do it just for the sake of self-development. It can be easier than taking a night class at a university and more flexible to add to your already hectic schedule. This allows students to maintain full-time employment if they wish while learning.
Why Udemy?
It can be a viable option for many people who are spending more time at home during the pandemic of COVID-19. I know, I tried to avoid the “C-word” but it is just a reality in the world of education right now. In Canada at least, some provinces are letting their children go back to school with social distancing precautions put in place. Parents naturally have the decision as to what is best for their child. That means some students continue their education through online learning. This example is for school-age children but it extends to university and post-grad students, too. It is because of the present climate that Udemy and other online learning services become the logical option for many.
Let’s Break Udemy’s Online Learning Service Down
Pros
- A good way to update your knowledge in subjects that are constantly changing
- A qualification to add to your resume
- Some classes have interactive instructors that you can ask questions to
- Once you purchase a class, you have it for an unlimited time
- There are constantly sales on courses to look out for if you can’t afford the original cost
- You complete the courses on your own time
Cons
- Unaccredited and may not be taken seriously as an achievement with some employers
- Courses can be costly if not on sale
- Anyone can sign up to be an instructor which can make qualified instructors hit or miss
To Udemy or Not to Udemy; That Is the Question
At the end of the day, any learning is good learning. Whether it’s in a university setting, online learning through Udemy, or in a coffee shop having a conversation with an old man on a Sunday morning. If you learned something you didn’t know before, you have progressed. You are one step ahead. At best, choosing a Udemy course on sale for say $13, could be equivalent to your weekly coffee budget (if you don’t buy at Starbucks). Ask yourself what you would be doing instead if you weren’t doing an online course in your free time. Binging Netflix maybe?
It’s all about what you think is worth it for you. I personally think it is a great use of spare time. If you prefer to take online courses but Udemy isn’t for you, that’s fine! There are many courses online through colleges and universities that are offered to prospective students.
For more information about being a self-student, you can check out my post here about different learning styles and the art of teaching yourself.
Have you ever used Udemy for an online course? Maybe you were an instructor teaching a subject. Let me know your experiences in the comments!