Coursera vs. Microsoft Hands-on Labs

It's absolutely ideal for programming. Today, most programming environments are available for free and enthusiasts can tinker with programming on their own. But Coursera structures that process and presents iteratively more complex assignments to the student. I found it useful for non-programming. I took a refresher Calculus course and the user was able to enter solutions symbolically which I found impressive.

Incentivized

The Microsoft Hands-on Labs were great for training when working alongside an instructor. They would show things on their screen, and I would work alongside with a real environment. Being able to actually use the environment and interact with it was more preferable than just a straight lecture. It allowed me hands-on practice.

Incentivized

• Coursera's courses are extremely good. They are well designed and being a full time employee I really appreciate the fact of how well they are designed.
• They have made sure that everybody gets enough time to complete it.
• There is an active community which is very helpful. No matter how good a teaching material is, you might always need extra help. This community can answer your question. And also this becomes extremely relevant if you are taking programming courses
• There are assignments to test your skills. This is a great way to evaluate yourself. At this point if you feel like you haven't understood something, you can always go back and refer the videos. Most of these assignments can be applied to real world problems as well which is great

Incentivized

• Actual Microsoft environment to play around with
• Instructions alongside
• Ability to save a session so you don't lose work

Incentivized

• If you leave the projects for the weekends, your Sunday nights could be a drag. But I list this as a benefit also, it enforces discipline on the learning process.
• I hope Coursera continues to offer no-cost and low-cost learning opportunities.
• I honestly can't think of any serious deficiency in the product. I am a huge fan.

Incentivized

• Copying and pasting can be clunky
• Sometimes the instructions are not accurate
• For some Microsoft tools, it requires you to create a temporary account, which takes some time and is time-consuming
• Have to remember to save or you will lose your environment
• May not be the most user-friendly to initially start

Incentivized

It’s marvelous.

Incentivized

User-friendly and developer-friendly Web UI.

Incentivized

I’ve used it a couple of times and... that did great. They take their time, but in the end they solve your issues.

Incentivized

Coursera is familiar, intuitive, compatible and easy to use and implement.

Incentivized

We've looked at or used many different LMS platforms including Blackboard, Learnshare, Canvas, Cornerstone, SABA, and many others. Each has its pros & cons but I feel Coursera given its brand recognition and built-in following it's a great value for any organization. I would not want to build out an entire MBA or other MASTERS level online program on it but it is a great way to allow potential students to experience your institutions content for a low price (of free).

Incentivized

I think Udemy is really superior as a platform, people create super high quality courses that get employees up to speed in days. The platform has a web and mobile app and has taking notes functionality that can be exported

Incentivized

• The greatest benefit of Coursera is access to quality courses on various subjects that you can either browse or dive in deeply. Customizable, flexible and accessible.
• Helps our department to recommend trainees courses on this website and gain important knowledge. Also, the courses are provided by big-name universities which helps students in their careers
• Developing and exploring professional skills.

Incentivized

• I think it has a positive impact in having a platform to train employees
• I don't think the cost might be worth it given that the content is super dry

Incentivized