YouTube’s looking to help more people get into college. Yep, news that’s actually not all about video. Anyhow, YouTube has this new program, in conjunction with Arizona State University and Crash Course, that’ll enable YouTube users to earn college credits via in-app courses.

Outlined by none other than the lovable Hank Green, YouTube’s new ‘Study Hall’ initiative aims to improve college access by providing explainers about the higher education process, along with some preparatory courses and elements, which can lead to an actual course. Wow, YouTube’s pulling all the stops here; this is as ‘educational’ as it gets!

Study-Only Zone

As per YouTube:

“Study Hall is a new approach that demystifies the college process while creating an affordable and accessible onramp to earning college credit. A postsecondary education drives economic and social mobility in powerful ways, yet the path to higher education can be riddled with barriers, including high cost and accessibility. We’re hoping to change that with Study Hall.”

Students interested can now sign up for the initial ‘College Foundations’ course, which starts on March 7th. As the name implies, the course would likely feature the basic aspects of college life, and even offers eligibility for transfer credit after. YouTube plans to expand the curriculum by an additional 12 courses over the next 2 years, which should provide people with more opportunities to get into higher education, in a more relaxed and self-governed way. Most of these courses are free, however, YouTube will charge a $25 fee should the participant elect to take coursework.

It’s a rather strong initiative on YouTube’s side and could have wide-reaching implications for many people. Higher education has never really been a thing for those well-off or simply blessed with direct opportunities, but now, more people can, and they can get an idea of what’s required and whether or not it’s truly for them. Who would turn down potentially free course credit, right?

This process also aligns with how more of the workforce is shifting, with online connectivity facilitating all new types of hybrid work models. Doing initial coursework online could better prepare some people for their actual workforce, while also incorporating higher flexibility when it comes to learning.

The Wrap

All in all, it’s a great way to make use of YouTube’s reach and popularity to offer more people more opportunities. Amid the broader economic downturn, which affects almost all industries and sectors, now could be a good time to do a self-assessment and whether or not you’d benefit from increasing your educational standing. Should you decide ‘Yes’, then you know where the Study Hall is.

Sources

http://bit.ly/3WCpCmR