Build your own online course from scratch

Even if you are not a professional teacher, it doesn’t mean you can’t start an online school. If you are an experienced expert in some sphere or an eager learner, you can share your passion with others, deepen your knowledge and earn some money!

Setting a course from scratch is quite a complicated quest, but we’ll lead you through all the steps. For the beginning, you may start with just an educational vlog on YouTube, and when you gain some experience (and followers!), you can monetize it and turn it into a MOOC.

Online course

So, how to make an online course?

  1. Find your niche

    First of all, define for yourself what you are really good at. It may be an academic discipline, way of leaving, sports, relationships, handicraft — whatever. Then, research a market. If your niche is too narrow, you may experience difficulties finding subscribers. If it’s too broad, the competition will be very high.

    Remember that nowadays, almost everything may be found on the Internet. So, to gain popularity and earn on the course, you have to offer something unique — your personal experience or research. You should also elaborate a transparent and easy-to-follow structure.

    Don’t forget to post polls on social media, ask your friends and internet users what they would like to learn from you. It may help you a lot.

    Yoga course online

  2. Choose your platform

    Best online classes are led on famous MOOC platforms, but it may be way too ambitious for the beginner to start with them.

    We’d recommend running your classes on your website if you have any. Another option — YouTube or other platforms for vlogging. They may offer fewer options, but that’s a good start without huge investments.

  3. Write an outline

    This step is essential for two reasons. First of all, you can post this plan on your social media or special landing page before the actual start of the course and start attracting learners. The second point — it will be easier to write content and elaborate assignments using this outline as milestones.

    Don’t forget to include different types of activities: individual assignments and group discussions, for example. At the end of each topic, place a revision section.

  4. Create a digital course

    Now collect all your materials and create a MOOC. It may be just a series of videos, or something more complicated, with text articles, audio podcasts, interactive tests, and discussion forums.

    Anyway, make sure you use proper equipment to record your video and audio. When the first draft is ready, edit your footage with the help of free online tools.

    Equipment for online course

  5. Launch your course

    This final stage is of high importance. You should advertise your MOOC and attract learners. Be aware that the first launch will take much of your time and attention, so you should be available for students and their inquiries even if you don’t consider personal tutoring and participation.

    Decide on monetization. Your MOOC may have an audit mode when the majority of materials are free, or you can sell subscriptions. Another option — open several first lessons for everybody, but provide some fee for the rest.

    As you can see, course creation is quite a challenging endeavor, but it is definitely worth it!