Cohort-based learning, also known as cohort learning, refers to a learning model that involves a group of students who start and finish a program together.
The term "cohort" refers to a group of individuals who share a common experience, such as being part of the same class, entering a program at the same time, or working toward a common goal.
Cohort-based learning is becoming increasingly popular in online education as it allows for a more collaborative and personalized learning experience.
VarsityScape is an online learning platform that supports cohort-based learning by offering a range of features and tools designed to enhance collaboration and engagement among students.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what cohort-based learning is and how it works, as well as explore the benefits of this learning model and how VarsityScape supports it.
What is Cohort-Based Learning?
As mentioned earlier, cohort-based learning is a learning model that involves a group of students who start and finish a program together. This means that students progress through the program at the same pace, taking the same courses and completing the same assignments.
In a cohort-based learning model, students form a community of learners who support each other throughout the program. This community can be a valuable resource for students, providing a sense of belonging and support that can help them stay motivated and engaged.
Cohort-based learning can take many different forms, depending on the program and the needs of the students. For example, some cohort-based programs may include synchronous (live) sessions where students meet online to discuss course material, while others may be entirely asynchronous (self-paced).
Benefits of Cohort-Based Learning
There are several benefits to cohort-based learning, including:
Collaboration: Cohort-based learning encourages collaboration and teamwork, as students work together to complete assignments and projects. This can help students develop important social and emotional skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
Accountability: In a cohort-based learning model, students are accountable to each other, as well as to the instructor. This can help keep students on track and motivated to succeed.
Support: Cohort-based learning provides a sense of community and support that can help students overcome challenges and stay engaged in the program.
Personalization: Cohort-based learning can be tailored to the needs of the students, allowing for a more personalized learning experience.
Flexibility: Cohort-based learning can be designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with work, family, and other commitments.
How VarsityScape Supports Cohort-Based Learning
VarsityScape is an online learning platform that supports cohort-based learning through a range of features and tools designed to enhance collaboration, engagement, and personalized learning.
Here are some ways that VarsityScape supports cohort-based learning:
Group Projects: VarsityScape allows instructors to create group projects, where students work together to complete assignments and projects. This promotes collaboration and teamwork among students.
Discussion Forums: VarsityScape includes discussion forums where students can ask questions, share ideas, and discuss course material. This encourages students to engage with each other and provides an opportunity for peer-to-peer learning.
Personalized Learning Paths: VarsityScape allows instructors to create personalized learning paths for students, based on their interests and learning needs. This allows students to focus on the areas of the course that are most relevant to them.
Synchronous Sessions: VarsityScape allows instructors to schedule synchronous (live) sessions, where students can meet online to discuss course material. This promotes real-time collaboration and engagement among students.
Progress Tracking: VarsityScape includes progress tracking tools that allow instructors to monitor student progress and provide feedback. This helps keep students on track and motivated