Coursera’s previous free access policy?

Introduction

In recent years, online learning platforms have become increasingly popular, with millions of students from all over the world taking advantage of the convenience and affordability that these platforms offer. One such platform is Coursera, a leading provider of online courses and degrees. Over the years, Coursera has implemented various policies to ensure that its courses are accessible to as many learners as possible. One of these policies was the free access policy, which allowed students to take selected courses for free. However, this policy was recently discontinued, leaving many students wondering what the future holds for online learning on the platform.

The Free Access Policy: What It Was and How It Worked

Coursera’s free access policy was first introduced in 2013, allowing students to take a select number of courses for free. These courses were chosen based on their popularity and relevance to the job market. Students who wanted to take these courses had to sign up for an account and enroll in the course they desired. They could then complete the course material, quizzes, and assignments at their own pace. Upon completion of the course, students would receive a certificate of achievement, which they could add to their resume or LinkedIn profile.

The End of the Free Access Policy: What Happened and Why?

In 2018, Coursera announced that it was discontinuing its free access policy. The reason behind this decision was not immediately clear, but many students speculated that it was due to the high demand for courses on the platform. With millions of learners looking to take advantage of the free courses, Coursera may have realized that it needed to find a more sustainable way to provide accessible education to its users.

The Impact of the Free Access Policy on Online Learning

Coursera’s free access policy had a significant impact on online learning, both for students and the education industry as a whole. On one hand, it made education more accessible to millions of learners who may not have been able to afford traditional university tuition fees. It also provided an opportunity for students to try out courses before committing to a full degree program, which helped them make more informed decisions about their education and career paths.

The End of the Free Access Policy: What It Means for Learners

With the end of the free access policy, students will no longer be able to take selected courses for free on Coursera. Instead, they will need to pay a fee to access these courses. This may be frustrating for some learners who were hoping to continue taking advantage of the platform’s affordable education options.

Conclusion

Coursera’s free access policy was a massive success, providing millions of learners with the opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge without breaking the bank. However, as with all good things, it had its limitations, and the platform ultimately decided to discontinue the policy. While this may be frustrating for some learners, it is important to remember that there are still many affordable education options available on Coursera and other platforms. As the online education industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see new and innovative policies and practices emerge that will make education more accessible and affordable for all.