Straighterline vs. Saylor

[dfrecore]

I haven't taken either. BUT, I have used the Saylor unproctored Final Exams to see how I might do on an exam. Some TECEP's specifically say to use the Saylor course that is aligned with that exam - that's a perfect example to use the unproctored final to judge how you'll do on the TECEP or an exam.

Based on posts here, I probably would not use Saylor to study for something I didn't know much. But I also don't like SL's method of testing word-for-word from the textbook, as I generally pick up themes rather than specific wording when I study. But, I would probably get used to that after a short time.

There is no perfect way to learn material, there is no perfect way to get credits, but it sure is nice to have so many different options!

[smrt]

You definitely get what you pay for with Saylor. If you're trying to bring your overall cost down, it's a good choice - And if you're not able to commit to hunkering down and finishing a bunch of classes in a month like you should to get the most out of SL.

I got paper books for SL classes on half.com for SO cheap. Max $5 each shipped. Totally worth it.

[RANSOMSOUL]

Just finished with the Principles of Marketing course exam (2 left this month and done!). Saylor as a cost value is an incredible service - self-pacing, ample study exams and for those that have a misstep on the final, you can retake in 14 days. The 14 day retake created some over the top bravery and I took the exam off of more feeling ready than my normal preparation ready. Best study resources used were the IC and retaking the non-credit final exam multiple times. I was fortunate to pass the initial exam with a 71 and increased my scores to 78 & 89. Finished with an 82 on the proctored exam and overall felt there was a decent amount of overlap with similar themed questions that carried over from the non-credit to credit exam.

The plan was to take DSST Introduction to Computing for the TESU Computer Concepts requirement but now I am considering knocking out Saylor's Introduction to Computing/CIS. This would be two BSBA Core Requirements, Marketing UL & Computing LL for under $50 dollars. The deal is even stronger when you factor in gas and time currency saved from being able to do this at home.

Best wishes for the weekend!

[Professor_Adam]

I had success with Straighterline when they first started out many years ago, however based on my recent experience I can no longer recommend them. The cost is still tough to beat. The problem I had when taking two recent courses was that the course materials did NOT cover the material that was tested.

Not only that, but unlike my previous experience with Straighterline, both course exams I tried had some "gotcha" type questions which were not covered at all and frankly were obscure in nature, seemingly meant to ensure that no one attains a perfect 100 on the exams. I'm a teacher myself and I don't do business like that and I certainly can't support any school that operates in this fashion. If a student doesn't have a fair shot at an 'A' based on the instruction materials and videos that are provided, then frankly, it's disingenuous and a complete disservice to its students/customers.

Furthermore, after having just sampled one quiz on each of two courses, I explained the issues I had with the inadequacy of the course materials to a Straighterline representative. Despite laying out my argument patiently and in a logical manner (very soon after signing up btw) I was denied a refund of the cost of the courses. This despite the fact that I had not completed either course and barely had time to sample them such that I determined they were not worth my money or time. Buyer beware.

[Nixi]

The problem I had when taking two recent courses was that the course materials did NOT cover the material that was tested.

It's very shitty of StraighterLine to not issue you a refund, sorry. :ack:

I've only had good experiences with the few courses I've taken with them and still intend to take some more courses due to cost and convenience. Could you post what courses you took, so I can avoid taking them?

[managerman]

I had success with Straighterline when they first started out many years ago, however based on my recent experience I can no longer recommend them. The cost is still tough to beat. The problem I had when taking two recent courses was that the course materials did NOT cover the material that was tested.

Not only that, but unlike my previous experience with Straighterline, both course exams I tried had some "gotcha" type questions which were not covered at all and frankly were obscure in nature, seemingly meant to ensure that no one attains a perfect 100 on the exams. I'm a teacher myself and I don't do business like that and I certainly can't support any school that operates in this fashion. If a student doesn't have a fair shot at an 'A' based on the instruction materials and videos that are provided, then frankly, it's disingenuous and a complete disservice to its students/customers.

Furthermore, after having just sampled one quiz on each of two courses, I explained the issues I had with the inadequacy of the course materials to a Straighterline representative. Despite laying out my argument patiently and in a logical manner (very soon after signing up btw) I was denied a refund of the cost of the courses. This despite the fact that I had not completed either course and barely had time to sample them such that I determined they were not worth my money or time. Buyer beware.

+1 on the "gotcha" questions....They don't want anyone bragging about a perfect score on the final.