Kinfolk

Jasmine Maze

In the worlds of education and personal development, the terms "course" and "workshop" get thrown around often. Often they are used interchangeably, especially today when so many programs are available online. Yet, they’re not really the same thing.

That’s why we recommend that you have a thorough understanding of what it means to attend a course versus a workshop, before you decide on a plan of learning. We also recommend you have a clear expectation of what you want to get out of the experience. The combination of the two will help you select the experience that’s best structured to meet your expectations.

We’re going to go over what courses and workshops really are and look at the strengths of each format. We’ll also explore where AltMBA fits into these definitions, to help you make an informed decision about how AltMBA can align with your goals and aspirations.

What is a Course?

A course is typically how a more traditional educational experience will be described. Courses are generally structured and comprehensive educational programs, usually providing a comprehensive overview of a particular subject. The primary goal is to provide a deeper understanding of a subject and develop mastery of the material.

The length of a course can vary, depending on the format, but in general, they tend to be longer, often spanning several weeks or months. The structure may include lectures, readings, assignments, quizzes, or exams. They are usually taught by instructors or professors who meet certification or training criteria.

What is a Workshop?

Workshops, on the other hand, are shorter, emergent, and more adaptive programs. Workshops are usually designed to provide practical, hands-on experience and will focus on a specific area.

Workshops may be led by a single facilitator or a team of experts. They often involve group activities, discussions, and exercises. The primary objective of a workshop is to develop a particular skill or set of skills, providing participants with immediate feedback and practical tools that they can apply in their work or personal life.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Courses vs. Workshops:

Here’s a quick guide to the advantages and disadvantages of both courses and workshops.

Advantages of courses:

Comprehensive coverage of topics
Allows participants to gain a deep understanding of the subject matter
May offer flexibility in scheduling, such as day or evening, weekends, self-guided, or online, which can accommodate individuals with busy lifestyles
May provide certification or accreditation, which can be valuable for professional growth.

Disadvantages of courses:

Can lack personalized attention
Can have limited opportunities for individualized feedback and guidance
May have limited interaction and collaboration among participants
Can require a significant financial investment and time commitment

Advantages of workshops:

Focus on specific skills or topics
Provide participants with a targeted learning experience
Foster interactive and collaborative learning environments
Allow individuals to learn from their peers and engage in real-time discussions
Offer immediate feedback and support, enabling participants to refine their skills in real time

Disadvantages of workshops:

May have limited coverage of broader topics due to prioritizing depth in a particular area.
May have fixed durations and schedules, which might not suit everyone's availability.
May not offer certification or accreditation.

Where Does AltMBA Fit In?

The AltMBA is designed around the principles of a workshop to offer a focused, interactive environment to work on participants’ own personal leadership skills and goals. A unique and transformative learning experience, AltMBA challenges participants to grow personally and professionally.

The AltMBA is designed as an intensive four-week workshop. The format is based on the philosophy of active learning and community building. During the duration of the workshop, participants engage in a variety of activities intentionally designed to push them out of their comfort zones, challenge assumptions, and develop their leadership skills and perspectives.

Each workshop is comprised of 13 prompts, with each prompt tailored to help participants develop a specific skill critical to leadership, no matter what their career level or industry. The prompts aren’t abstract concepts; they are formulated to allow students to move forward while they work on their real-world goals.

An integral part of the AltMBA is its emphasis on interaction, encouraging participants to collaborate in small groups and engage in online discussions with their peers. Each week focuses on a specific theme or topic, designed to help participants stay focused and engaged while making meaningful progress toward their goals.

The AltMBA philosophy is that learning is most effective when it’s active and hands-on. Unlike some courses which teach leadership theory, AltMBA participants are encouraged to apply what they learn to real-world situations.

Another of the AltMBA’s strengths is its emphasis on community building. Alums are encouraged to collaborate and support each other throughout the program, and beyond. This collaboration creates a space where individuals can feel safe to explore their potential, develop new skills, and broaden their perspectives. By immersing themselves in this dynamic learning experience, participants are able to not only acquire knowledge but also forge lasting relationships with their peers.

Course or Workshop: Which One is Right for You?

Which should you choose: a course, or a workshop? The decision ultimately depends on your unique needs and objectives. We recommend evaluating what you hope to achieve from the experience, so you can determine which one is most suitable for you.

For those seeking a transformative journey that fosters personal and professional growth, the AltMBA workshop is a compelling option. This workshop dares participants to step out of their comfort zones and confront challenges head-on, pushing them to stretch both personally and professionally.

Whether you're seeking to expand your skill set or embrace personal growth, the AltMBA workshop provides an exceptional opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Is the AltMBA right for you? We’d love to give you the information you need to make a decision. Schedule a call with an alum today to learn more about AltMBA.

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