One of the best ways to retain learners and increase earnings on Outschool is by designing class pathways. These pathways guide learners through a progression of classes, keeping them engaged and building long-term relationships with families. In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating a class funnel that moves learners from beginner to advanced levels, tailoring follow-up classes to popular topics, and effectively promoting these pathways to families.
Step 1: Create a Progression of Classes
Engagement increases when learners feel challenged and see a clear path forward in their learning journey. Structuring your classes as a progression (beginner, intermediate, advanced) ensures learners stay invested in their growth.
Map Your Content:
- Identify a skill, topic, or subject where progression makes sense (e.g., creative writing, coding, music).
- Break the content into distinct levels based on complexity.
Define Learning Objectives:
- Clearly outline what learners will achieve at each level.
- Ensure objectives build on each other logically from one level to the next.
Design with Retention in Mind:
- Offer a mix of short-term and long-term classes to accommodate different learner needs.
- Use multi-session courses to deepen engagement at each level.
Example: For a public speaking pathway:
- Beginner: “Speaking with Confidence: Introduction to Public Speaking”
- Intermediate: “Mastering Speech Writing: Advanced Techniques for Public Speaking”
- Advanced: “Leadership Through Speaking: Advanced Presentations and Persuasion”
Step 2: Tailor Follow-Up Classes to Popular Topics
Learner interest often aligns with specific trends or high-demand areas. Use data and feedback to guide your next class creation.
Analyze Learner Data:
- Use the Insights Tab to see which of your classes have the highest enrollments.
- Look at family reviews to identify topics learners want to explore further.
Brainstorm Extensions:
- Consider adding specialized or niche classes that complement your current offerings.
- Example: If a beginner class on dinosaurs is popular, offer a follow-up focusing on “Prehistoric Creatures of the Ocean.”
Ask for Feedback:
- At the end of a class, survey families on what they’d like to learn next.
Actionable Tip: Keep a running list of follow-up ideas based on family requests and learner engagement trends.
Step 3: Promote Pathways to Families
Once you’ve created a funnel of classes, it’s important to communicate the value of these pathways to families. Highlight how continuing through the pathway will benefit their learners.
Highlight the Journey:
- Use class descriptions to showcase how each level builds upon the last.
- Example: “After completing [Beginner Class], learners can move on to [Intermediate Class] to expand their skills.”
Engage Through Communication:
- Use bulk messaging to inform families about upcoming levels in the pathway.
- Include a reminder in post-class follow-ups about the next step.
Offer Discounts or Bundles:
- Encourage enrollment in multiple classes by providing package deals.
- Example: “Sign up for all three levels and save 15%!”
Actionable Tip: Create a FAQ section in your class descriptions to address questions about progression and prerequisites.
Building advanced class pathways not only engages learners but also positions your business for long-term growth. By creating a structured progression, designing tailored follow-ups, and promoting these opportunities effectively, you can turn one-time learners into loyal customers. Use the accompanying worksheet to start building your class funnel today.
Worksheet Outline: Advanced Class Pathways
Section 1: Mapping Your Pathway
Core Topic or Subject:
- Beginner Class Name:
- Intermediate Class Name:
- Advanced Class Name:
Learning Objectives:
- Beginner Level:
- Intermediate Level:
- Advanced Level:
Section 2: Tailoring Follow-Up Classes
Popular Class Insights:
- Class Name:
- Learner Feedback:
- Opportunities for Follow-Up Classes:
Brainstorm Extensions:
- New Class Ideas:
Section 3: Promotion Plan
Messaging Schedule:
- Announce New Classes:
- Post-Class Follow-Up:
- Bulk Messaging:
Promotional Strategies:
- Bundling Discounts:
- Highlighting Class Pathways in Descriptions:
- Creating Visual Pathways:
Section 4: Action Plan
Top 3 Next Steps:
1.
2.
3.
Completion Timeline:
– (Set a date to launch your first class pathway)
