Understanding Cohort-Based Learning

Collaboration, engagement, and motivation are just some of the key features that make cohort learning a valuable approach to teaching and learning. In this blog post, let’s talk about cohort-based learning, its benefits, challenges, and key features.

I. What is Cohort-Based Learning?

Cohort-based learning refers to an educational approach where a group of students progresses through a course or program together, following a set of schedule and participating in collaborative activities, discussions, and assignments. In this type of approach, learners often form strong bonds with peers, as they share experiences and learn from each other’s perspectives.

This approach contrasts with self-paced learning, where learner’s progress through material at their own speed. Cohort learning is commonly used in online courses, bootcamps, and professional development programs.

II. Cohort-Based Learning and Digital Technologies

With the rise of distance education, cohort-based models began to merge as well. Learners would enroll in courses together, receive the materials for the class, and take the class in a remote setup. This type of approach was also made even popular by the rise of internet and digital technologies around the world. Learners are no longer limited by their geographic locations and can take the courses virtually.

Bootcamps and professional development programs also utilize this educational approach. Learners undergo intensive training in specialized fields. Programs like these have a structured start and end dates and incorporates collaboration and peer learning. This approach is also utilize by educational institutions and corporations that observe hybrid approaches in educating learnings or training employees. Oftentimes, educational institutions and companies use different learning management systems (LMS) and video conferencing applications in facilitating cohort learning.

Through this approach, learners benefit from both structured group activities and individualized learning experiences at the same time. They are also introduced to various technologies that are often used in cohort learning.

III. Key Characteristics of Cohort-Based Learning

Apart from fostering the sense of community and encouraging collaboration, cohort-based learning has different key characteristics. Some of these include:

1. Structured schedule: Cohort-based learning follows a fixed and predetermined schedule. All learners progress through the course or program together over a pre-specified period of time.
2. Shared learning experiences: Cohort participants share common learning experiences. This includes lectures, assignments, and assessments. Learners exchange knowledge and share experiences at the end of each chapter through guided questions for reflection.
3. Accountability and motivation: Cohort-based learning promoted accountability and motivation among the learners. As they progress through the course, learners are expected to complete specific lessons based on the predetermined schedule.
4. Networking opportunities: For most cohort-based learning sessions where learners are provided with the opportunity to communicated with other learners, network and relationship building take place. These often lead to valuable connections and even professional opportunities in the future.

IV. Challenges to Cohort Learning

While cohort-based learning provides many opportunities and benefits to learners, there are also several challenges in using this approach for teaching and training. These include:

1. Limited flexibility: Since learners progress through the course together for a specified period of time, this approach may not be suitable for some learners. Some learners may feel restricted due to the timeline.
2. Limited content customization: Along with a fixed schedule, it also has a fixed curriculum, leaving little room for customization based on individual interests and goals.
3. Diverse learner needs: Learners have varied learning preferences and motivation which cannot all be addressed by fixed curriculum that this approach usually has.

Conclusion

In summary, cohort-based learning is an effective approach to education and training that can foster a sense of community and encourage collaboration among learners. This approach provides a structured schedule, shared learning experiences, accountability, motivation, and networking opportunities. However, it also has its challenges, such as limited flexibility, limited content customization, and diverse learner needs. Despite these challenges, this can be an excellent way to learn and grow with others, both in person and online.