Why course completion rates are stupid

Your heart races as you stare at the analytics dashboard.

The numbers don’t lie - your course completion rates aren't exactly where you'd want them to be.

But before you think you need to rerecord you whole course, let me share some insights that might just change your perspective on this whole completion rate thing...

Today, I’m going to show you:

• Why obsessing over completion rates is a huge waste of time
• How to measure success far beyond the numbers
• The hidden opportunity in “incomplete” courses

Let’s dive in…

The Completion Rate Myth

Industry wide, online course completion rates tend to sit around 14%.

Pretty abysmal, right?

That probably means that courses are a scam and they don't work, right?

Not at all.

See, your course’s success isn’t solely determined by completion rates.

Here’s at least four reasons why:

1. Early value delivery: Sometimes, students get exactly what they need in the first few modules and don’t need to continue. (This has been me many times.)
2. Life happens: Family emergencies, work chaos, or health issues can derail even the most committed students. (Also me)
3. Opportunities arise: Your high-achieving students might pivot to a new project before finishing. (Me again)
4. Sampling for specific knowledge: Some people enroll to learn one particular skill or concept, not to complete the entire course. (I've done this way more than once)

Redefining Success

Instead of fixating on completion rates, consider these alternative metrics:

1. Transformation stories: How many students achieved their desired outcome?
2. Engagement levels: Are students actively participating in discussions and assignments?
3. Specific module completion: Which parts of your course are most valuable to students?
4. Student satisfaction: What do your reviews and testimonials say?

By focusing on data points that take into account the real world, you can act on data that really matters to your business.

The Hidden Opportunity

Low completion rates aren’t a failure - they’re an invitation to innovate.

Here’s how to turn this challenge into an opportunity:

1. Break it down: Consider micro-courses or bite-sized modules for busy people.
2. Create community: Foster a supportive environment where students can motivate each other.
3. Personalize the experience: Use adaptive learning techniques to cater to individual student needs.
4. Set clear expectations: Be upfront about time commitments and course structure.
5. Celebrate milestones: Recognize student achievements along the way, not just at the finish line.

If you focus on delivering value, the completion rates will follow.

Your course isn’t a race to the finish line. It’s a buffet of knowledge where students can sample what they need.

So, be intentional about the value you provide, not just the percentage who cross an arbitrary finish line.

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