MasterClass stands out among online learning platforms because of its distinguished celebrity instructors who teach over 180 classes in 11 different categories. With renowned figures like Anna Wintour, Annie Leibovitz, and Gordon Ramsay sharing their knowledge, expertise, and passion, MasterClass offers a unique opportunity for learners to gain insights from some of the best in their respective fields. Founded in San Francisco in 2014 by David Rogier, the platform offers well-produced and highly engaging video lessons that are typically no longer than 10 minutes each. With an average of 20 video lessons per class, MasterClass provides a convenient and accessible way for individuals to learn and improve their skills in a variety of subjects.
You might be wondering whether MasterClass offers more than just famous instructors and impressive video production. Perhaps you’re wondering whether taking one of its classes will actually result in you acquiring practical skills.
Stick around to find out more in this detailed MasterClass review.
Pros
Affordable
Even though MasterClass is billed annually, when you break down the price month to month it’s fairly affordable for the number of classes you can access.
Well Produced
After watching 10 seconds of the first video, you’ll realize that MasterClass videos have been very nicely put together. They have a very engaging cinematic aura.
Variety
MasterClass offers a diverse range of categories from Food, Music, Business, Wellness and much more. So, users have plenty of choice and defiantly won’t get bored.
Top VIP Instructors
Of course, a big selling point of MasterClass is getting to learn a skill from 150+ worldwide-recognized celebrity. You have Chris Voss Teaching the Art of Negotiation and Brandon McMillian Teaches Dog Training and many more famous faces, teaching you their craft.
Generous Refund Policy
After you purchase your MasterClass annual membership, you’ll have a 30-day money-back guarantee, in case you change your mind.
Engaging & Bitesize
MasterClass 180+ classes include 2500+ bite size video lessons are for anyone, you don’t need any prior knowledge. They are engaging and easy to watch.
User Friendly App
Its user-friendly app means you can download and watch classes anytime, anywhere at your own pace.
Cons
No Free Trials
Sadly, MasterClass doesn’t offer any free trials, but recently, it started offering some free classes to watch to give you a taste of the platform.
No Certificates
Sadly, you won’t receive a completion certificate when you successfully complete a class with MasterClass.
Lacking Reviews
There are some reviews from past members on the homepage. But nothing detailed or about specific classes. So, you are left without a comprehensive account of a previous learner’s experience.
No Single Class
If you aren’t wanting to subscribe to an annual membership, sadly MasterClass doesn’t offer any other option. If purchasing one class was want you wanted, this isn’t available.
MasterClass Review Verdict
MasterClass is an online learning platform that provides unlimited access to more than 180 classes across 11 diverse categories, such as cooking, writing, acting, music, sports, and more. With over 150 world-class instructors who are celebrities and VIPs in their respective fields, MasterClass offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise. However, it’s important to note that there’s no opportunity to interact with or ask questions of the celebrity instructors. The classes have been designed to be accessible even for individuals with no prior experience. Each class is comprised of approximately 20 video lessons, each lasting around 10 minutes. The video lessons are skillfully produced and have a cinematic feel, making the learning experience with MasterClass highly immersive and engaging. New classes are frequently added, offering opportunities to learn practical skills and discover new passions. MasterClass offers three subscription plans, which are billed annually starting at $180 per year. If you change your mind about using MasterClass, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available.
Who Is MasterClass For?
- It is hard to pinpoint: Who exactly MasterClass is right for?
MasterClass is an online platform that caters to individuals who are passionate about a particular subject, such as photography or learning to cook restaurant-quality meals at home. The classes are structured to accommodate both novice learners and those with prior experience in the chosen category. However, what sets MasterClass apart is its use of well-known instructors who teach the classes. Whether it’s Anna Wintour sharing insights on creativity and leadership, or Brandon McMillan teaching dog training techniques, the presence of these celebrities makes MasterClass a one-of-a-kind online learning experience.
If you are anything like me and learn best from engaging and bite sized video lessons (no longer than 10 minutes each) then its video lessons will have you hooked. Its classes are really well produced and a pleasure to watch. You can read later in detail about My Experience of a MasterClass to give you a better idea of what to expect.
Which classes are right for me?
If you’re not sure where to begin, I recommend selecting “My Categories” and then choosing one or more of the options under “What brings you to MasterClass today?” Next, you can select the categories that interest you the most and submit your choices. This will generate a custom result that displays all of the recommended classes based on your category selection, which should provide you with a solid starting point for your MasterClass journey.
MasterClass At Work
Like most other online learning platforms, MasterClass doesn’t only offer its classes for individual learners, it has plans for teams and businesses or more commonly known as MasterClass At Work. You can invest in your team or business by contacting sales to choose the plan for your business.
You will fill in your company information choosing the number of annual memberships (between 5-1000 seats), name of your company or organization, location and email address (see image below). The group rates discount (5-35%) when you purchase of 5+ annual memberships.
According to MasterClass, their platform can help drive business outcomes for your organization and employees (as shown in the image below). However, it’s essential to evaluate whether your organization would truly benefit from the MasterClass catalogue, considering the type of organization you belong to. It may be worthwhile to request a free demo to test out the platform before committing to it.
In short, organizations choose MasterClass At Work;
- Stream anytime, anywhere, at your pace
- Get inspired, 10 minutes at a time
- An immersive learning experience
- Learn from the world’s best
- 150+ Instructors across a variety of categories
- Unlimited access with your annual membership
How Much Is A MasterClass?
MasterClass offers 3 different subscription plans which give you full access to its 2,500+ video lessons covering 11 categories. When you arrive at MasterClass you just need to add your email and click ‘SIGN UP’ (see image below). You will then be taken to choose an annual MasterClass membership.
The MasterClass subscription plans are the following:
- Individual: $180 billed annually (working out at $15/month)
- Duo: $240 billed annually (working out at $20/month)
- Family: $276 billed annually (working out at $23/month)
All of these plans are billed on an annual basis, and the price difference between each one is relatively small. However, the primary distinction is that the Duo and Family plans offer the ability to download content for offline viewing and allow multiple users or devices to access the MasterClass platform simultaneously.
MasterClass Free Sneak Peek
On the MasterClass homepage, if you scroll down, you will come across the “Get a free Sneak Peek” section (as shown in the image below). However, be sure to keep an eye out for it, as it can be easy to miss. This section provides access to several video lessons from instructors such as Anna Wintour and Chris Voss, offering a glimpse of their MasterClass and what you can anticipate from it.
You can cancel your MasterClass membership renewal anytime by going to your account page and following the prompts on the Settings page. This will ensure that your membership doesn’t renew for the following year. If you’re curious about other online learning platforms with similar pricing plans, you may want to check out our comparison article on Skillshare Vs MasterClass.
Guest Pass
Upon subscribing to a MasterClass membership, you will receive Guest Passes that you can share with your friends or loved ones. I was fortunate enough to receive three passes that each come with a 14-day free trial to the platform. To activate the pass, your friend or loved one will be required to enter their debit/credit card information. If they decide not to continue with the platform, they must cancel their subscription before the 14-day free access ends to avoid being charged.
Gift a Membership
MasterClass offers the option of gifting an annual membership to a colleague, friend or loved one. If you have someone in your life that enjoys online learning and would enjoy exploring the classes taught by VIP instructors, then why not gift them something memorable.
You can add an optional gift message which will be sent via email either immediately or on a chosen date. Just like a regular membership a 30-day money-back is guaranteed. If the recipient has not yet redeemed the gift membership, then you can reach out to the member support team and your gift will be refunded.
MasterClass Social Impact
The Grants Program by MasterClass is aimed at supporting communities in need. Accredited charitable organizations are eligible to receive annual memberships from MasterClass.
Its communities focus on low-income families, BIPOC youth, and current or formerly incarcerated individuals. If you believe your organization supports one or more of these communities you can submit an application and the team will evaluate it and notify you via email if you have been selected for a grant.
MasterClass has partnered with Lewis Hamilton, who has been named the first Community Ambassador, to extend support to underserved communities in the UK, especially organizations that work towards STEAM programming and support black youth. This collaboration has led to the distribution of 200,000 free annual memberships by MasterClass.
MasterClass Refund
After starting your MasterClass membership and then deciding it isn’t right for you, you are given 30 days to submit a request for refund.
Once you have filled out the required information such as your email address, subject, description, and reason for contacting MasterClass, it may take a few days for a response. Once you receive confirmation of your request, it usually takes around five business days for the refund to be processed.
If you are uncertain whether MasterClass is the right platform for you, keep in mind that the first month can be considered a free trial, and if you are not satisfied, you can request a refund.
Is MasterClass Free?
Although MasterClass doesn’t offer any free trials, it provides a variety of video lessons, each lasting around 10 minutes, that you can watch for free. This is an excellent resource for anyone who is uncertain about upgrading to a paid MasterClass membership. At the moment, you can access free video lessons from well-known instructors such as Anna Wintour, Matthew Walker, Chris Voss, and many more.
How To Open A MasterClass Account?
MasterClass makes it very easy to open an account with them. I thought it would still be helpful for you to follow a step by step.
- Visit MasterClass.com and enter your email address and click GET STARTED (see image above)
- Then you will choose a membership plan
- Next you will then be directed to add your card information (see image below)
- Finally, Click PLACE SECURE ORDER
That’s it, it’s that easy. You will now be up and running and ready to start browsing the classes at MasterClass and start enjoying this exciting and engaging platform.
How to Cancel a MasterClass Membership?
Here’s a possible rephrased version:
You can easily cancel your MasterClass membership anytime by turning off the auto-renewal feature in your account settings. To do this, follow these three simple steps:
- Log into your account through www.masterclass.com
- Once logged in, click on your Profile Menu in the top-right corner and click on settings.
- Scroll down on account settings and click the Cancel Membership button under the membership section of the page.
You will then be guided through the steps to cancel your automatic renewal membership. Once you have successfully completed these steps your account will not renew at the end of your current subscription period.
What Classes Can I Find On MasterClass?
MasterClass provides access to 180+ classes taught by VIP and celebrity instructors across 11 categories, including Food, Design & Style, Arts & Entertainment, Music, Business, Sports & Gaming, Writing, Science & Tech, Home & Lifestyle, Community & Government, and Wellness. What’s more, MasterClass lets you download the classes to watch offline.
Certain categories and video classes in MasterClass are more popular than others, such as Design & Style which offers classes from Anna Wintour and Annie Leibovitz, as well as popular Food classes from Gordon Ramsay and Thomas Keller. Home & Lifestyle is another popular category featuring classes from Brandon McMillian and Ron Finley. However, in general, there is a wide range of topics available, and the bite-sized format of the video classes makes it engaging and easy to watch for everyone.
MasterClass Categories
MasterClass offers a helpful selector where you can choose a particular category like Food, Writing, Business and more. This helps you view the classes on a particular topic and removing ones that you aren’t interested in.
Masterclass classes are made up of 10 to 20 video lessons, and each lesson is approximately 10 minutes long. Every month new classes are added as well as categories.
MasterClass Filters
The MasterClass filter feature provides a way for you to refine your search results. It offers options to choose from including Format, My Content, and Duration, each with their own set of subfilters. The Format filter includes subfilters such as Classes, Original Series, Playlists, and Sessions. The My Content filter offers subfilters like In Progress, Completed, and On My List. Additionally, the Duration subfilters range from Under 5 Minutes to Over 4 Hours. These filter options are extremely useful when trying to find specific content that matches your interests and needs.
Trending classes
MasterClass frequently refreshes its trending classes, which encompass both classes and sessions. This can be beneficial for new MasterClass users who want to see which classes and sessions are popular among others. It could serve as a good starting point for exploring the platform.
New classes
MasterClass does a pretty good job of keeping its content current and fresh, with new classes being added every month. They like to give you a sneak peek of upcoming classes and the instructors teaching them, which is exciting.
Most Popular MasterClasses
I conducted research on the most popular MasterClass classes to find out which ones users are enjoying the most and which I might want to try out for myself. In addition to that, I came across an intriguing study on the most popular MasterClasses by Grand Canyon University, which used engagement metrics such as video views, likes, and comments from users. As a result, here are the top 10 MasterClasses:
1. Anna Wintour Teaches Creativity and Leadership
The MasterClass that has gained the most popularity among learners is led by Anna Wintour, the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue. In her MasterClass, Anna provides unparalleled insight into her world, teaching you how to lead with vision and creativity, without apology. Anna begins by sharing personal experiences that have influenced her leadership style and takes you behind the scenes of Vogue’s offices, providing guidance for aspiring talent and designers on how to succeed. The MasterClass is 2 hours and 36 minutes long and includes 12 video lessons.
2.Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography
One of the popular MasterClasses on MasterClass is focused on photography by Annie Leibovitz. Annie provides a glimpse into her studio and photography sessions to teach you all there is to know about portraiture. The MasterClass starts with her reflecting on her career and the impact of photography in storytelling. It then delves into portrait photography, creating concepts, and comparing studio vs. location settings. One of the intriguing video lessons is when Annie analyzes students’ work and gives them valuable feedback. The MasterClass lasts for 3 hours and 4 minutes, and it consists of 15 video lessons.
3. Brandon McMillan Teaches Dog Training
Emmy-winning host of ‘Lucky Dog’, Brandon McMillan, is an expert animal trainer who focuses on establishing strong relationships between humans and animals. In his MasterClass, he shares his simple and effective training system to help you build trust and control with your dog. You will learn about using commands, improving your dog’s behavior, and creating a lifelong bond with your furry friend. The class includes 15 video lessons and runs for 2 hours and 58 minutes.
4. Chris Voss Teaches the Art of Negotiation
Former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss shares his expert negotiation strategies in his MasterClass, which can be applied in everyday situations to enhance your relationships or negotiate a better salary. Voss provides insights into human nature that most of us are unaware of and helps you improve your communication skills. With experience in persuading terrorists, bank robbers and kidnappers to see things his way, he offers valuable lessons on how to achieve successful negotiations. The MasterClass consists of 18 video lessons, totaling 3 hours and 4 minutes.
5. Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking II: Restaurant Recipes at Homes
Moving on to the next MasterClass, we have Gordon Ramsay sharing his culinary expertise in “Restaurant Recipes at Home”. In this class, you’ll discover how to prepare restaurant-quality dishes with tips on efficient prep and impressive presentation. Ramsay kicks off the MasterClass by introducing his newest restaurant-inspired recipes, which will help you amaze your guests at your next dinner party. Each lesson in the class is dedicated to a different recipe, including Cauliflower Steak, Hoisin Chicken, and Raspberry Souffle, among others. In total, the class contains 15 video lessons and runs for 4 hours and 13 minutes.
6. Kelly Wearstler Teaches Interior Design
Kelly Wearstler, a renowned award-winning designer, offers her expertise in interior design techniques to enhance any living space in her MasterClass. Like many other MasterClasses, Kelly starts with an introduction and discusses how good design can impact our well-being. The subsequent video lessons cover various aspects of interior design, such as sources of inspiration, space management, texture exploration, and more. The MasterClass consists of 17 video lessons, totaling 2 hours and 13 minutes.
7. Neil deGrasse Tyson Teaches Scientific Thinking and Communication
Neil deGrasse Tyson’s MasterClass on scientific literacy is one of the most sought-after courses among learners. With his exceptional teaching skills, Tyson aims to broaden your knowledge of science, guide you in interpreting data, and help you navigate through biases to unveil objective truths. The MasterClass comprises 13 video lessons, totaling 2 hours and 14 minutes, and is presented in an engaging and inspiring manner.
8. Neil Gaiman Teaches The Art of Storytelling
Neil Gaiman’s MasterClass focuses on the Art of Storytelling, where he shares his techniques for creating convincing characters, imaginative worlds, and new ideas. He begins by expressing his passion for teaching and encourages learners to tell stories that are meaningful. The subsequent video lessons explore various topics, such as Truth in Fiction, Sources of Inspiration, and Finding Your Voice. Gaiman concludes the MasterClass by discussing the responsibility of creating art with an audience. The course is comprised of 19 video lessons and is approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes long.
9. Ron Finley Teaches Gardening
This MasterClass on gardening is presented by Ron Finley, a self-taught gardener and community activist. Ron teaches you how to garden in any space, take care of your plants, and cultivate your own food. He starts his MasterClass by discussing why we should all respect nature and how growing our own food can offer us freedom. The video lessons cover a variety of topics, such as ‘Creating Planters’, ‘Growing Your Own Food’, and ‘How to Keep Your Plants Alive’. The MasterClass consists of 10 video lessons that are 2 hours and 7 minutes in total.
10. Thomas Keller Teaches Cooking Techniques I
This MasterClass by Thomas Keller is focused on teaching you the essential techniques for cooking vegetables, eggs, and making fresh pasta. Keller is an accomplished chef and owner of The French Laundry restaurant. In the beginning of his MasterClass, he provides an overview of the dishes he will be preparing and the fundamental techniques you will learn to elevate your cooking skills. The 36 video lessons cover a range of topics, including setting up your kitchen, selecting ingredients, and pickling. The total runtime for the MasterClass is 6 hours and 53 minutes.
Other MasterClasses To Consider
In case you aren’t convinced by one of the most popular MasterClasses listed above you may want to consider exploring one of the classes listed below which may pique your interest.
Food
Yotam Ottolenghi offers a MasterClass on Modern Middle Eastern Cooking, where he teaches how to create dishes with layered colors and flavors for maximum impact. He demonstrates simple steps for making and mixing Middle Eastern-inspired recipes, such as generous platters, mezze, and brunch spreads, along with homemade condiments and delicious vegetables. This MasterClass comprises 26 video lessons, totaling 5 hours 41 minutes.
Gordon Ramsay delivers a MasterClass on Cooking I, taking you into his home kitchen to teach everything from setting up a kitchen and selecting the freshest ingredients to preparing unforgettable dishes. This MasterClass contains 20 video lessons, totaling 3 hours 54 minutes.
In his MasterClass on Modern Italian Cooking, Massimo Bottura, the chef of the three-Michelin-star Osteria Francescana, treats his world-renowned restaurant as a laboratory of ideas. He shares how he transforms classic, regional Italian recipes into exciting modern dishes. This MasterClass comprises 14 video lessons, totaling 3 hours 46 minutes.
Art
Jimmy Chin is a renowned adventure photographer who has captured stunning shots from the world’s highest peaks. In his MasterClass, he takes you on location and teaches you techniques for capturing breathtaking shots. The course is composed of 20 video lessons and has a total runtime of 4 hours and 10 minutes.
Bobbi Brown, a renowned makeup artist, shares her expertise in step-by-step tutorials using models with a variety of skin tones. Her MasterClass covers everything from selecting the right foundation to creating a smoky eye and statement lip, as well as how to transition your look from day to night. The course is made up of 19 video lessons and has a total runtime of 3 hours and 48 minutes.
David Lynch is a visionary filmmaker who introduced mainstream audiences to art-house films. In his MasterClass, he teaches how to catch ideas, translate them into a narrative, and move beyond formulaic storytelling. The course includes 13 video lessons and has a total runtime of 2 hours and 52 minutes.
Jeff Koons, a prominent contemporary artist, invites you to join him in a thought-provoking conversation about the history, purpose, and pleasures of art. You will learn how to use color, scale, form, and texture to express ideas and communicate with others. The course includes 13 video lessons and has a total runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Music
Alicia Keys Teaches Songwriting and Producing – Alicia Keys is one of the world’s most beloved singer-songwriter winning 15 Grammy Awards and more than 40 million albums sold. She invites you to her studio to share her process for creating music built from authentic emotion. This class is 3 hours 22 minutes in total and made up of 19 video lessons.
Timbaland Teaches Producing and Beatmaking – Grammy-winning music producer Timbaland takes you behind the boards to teach you his process for creating iconic tracks. You will learn how to collaborate with vocalists, layer new tracks, and create hooks that stick. This class is 3 hours 2 minutes in total and made up of 15 video lessons.
Business
Bob Iger shares his expertise on business strategy and leadership in his online course. As a former Disney CEO with 45 years of experience in the media industry, he provides valuable insights on evolving your business and career, expanding a brand, and leading with integrity. The course consists of 13 video lessons and has a total duration of 2 hours and 11 minutes.
In her first online fashion design class, Diane von Furstenberg teaches you how to build a fashion brand. She has built one of the world’s most iconic and enduring fashion brands, and shares her knowledge and experience in this 3-hour and 7-minute course. The course comprises 17 video lessons.
Sports & Gaming
Stephen Curry Teaches Shooting, Ball-Handling, and Scoring – In this class, Stephen Curry, a two-time MVP, shares his shooting, ball-handling, and scoring techniques. He covers everything from perfect shooting mechanics to on-court concepts and basketball drills. The class comprises 17 video lessons, totaling 3 hours and 41 minutes.
Will Wright Teaches Game Design and Theory – Will Wright, the mastermind behind SimCity and The Sims, imparts the art and science of game design in this class. You will learn how to create games that empower players and stimulate their imagination, develop a toolset for understanding player psychology, and explore Will’s approach to generating and pitching ideas. The class includes 21 video lessons, totaling 4 hours and 16 minutes.
Writing
- Issa Rae Teaches Creating Outside the Lines – In this class, Emmy-nominated star and creator of the award-winning HBO series Insecure, Issa Rae, shares her signature do-it-yourself ethos, humor, and voice to offer writers and creators of all types the motivation and tools they need to create outside the lines. The class comprises 14 video lessons totaling 2 hours and 17 minutes.
- David Sedaris Teaches Storytelling and Humor – Bestselling author and humorist David Sedaris, known for his essays in The New Yorker, NPR readings, and tours, teaches the art of personal storytelling in this class. Students will learn how to craft attention-grabbing openings, satisfying endings, and find meaning in the mundane. The class consists of 14 video lessons totaling 3 hours and 23 minutes.
Science & Tech
Matthew Walker, an expert on sleep and a professor of neuroscience and psychology at UC Berkeley, offers a MasterClass that delves into the science of sleep. In this course, Matthew will guide you on ways to improve the quality and quantity of your sleep. He will teach you how to avoid sleep debt, deal with the effects of caffeine and alcohol, and improve your overall health. The MasterClass comprises 15 video lessons, totaling 3 hours and 12 minutes.
Former commander of the International Space Station, Chris Hadfield, shares his knowledge of space exploration in his MasterClass. Through 29 video lessons totaling 7 hours and 47 minutes, Chris teaches you about the science of space travel and life as an astronaut. He will help you understand how the experience of flying in space can alter the way you think about life on Earth.
Home & Lifestyle
Jon Kabat-Zinn, a leading figure in the Western mindfulness movement, has spent over 40 years researching, teaching, and promoting the benefits of mindfulness. In his MasterClass, Jon provides his expert guidance on mindfulness practices, stress reduction, and how to use meditation and movement to calm your mind. The course comprises 20 video lessons, with a total runtime of 6 hours and 30 minutes.
Brandon McMillan, an accomplished dog trainer who is passionate about fostering positive relationships between humans and animals, offers his straightforward and effective training system in his MasterClass on dog training. With his guidance, you can develop trust and control with your dog. The course includes 15 video lessons, totaling 2 hours and 58 minutes.
Community & Government
Doris Kearns Goodwin Teaches U.S. Presidential History and Leadership – With over 50 years of studying American presidents, Doris Kearns Goodwin is an expert on U.S presidential history and leadership. Through practical wisdom and a template for honing leadership skills, Doris teaches you leadership through the lens of American history. Her MasterClass is made up of 15 video lessons totaling 2 hours and 56 minutes.
Dr Jane Goodall Teaches Conservation – In this MasterClass, Dr Jane Goodall shares her insights on conservation and how we can let nature win if we give her a chance. With her extensive research on the behavioral patterns of chimpanzees, she teaches what they taught her about conservation. This class is made up of 29 video lessons totaling 5 hours and 19 minutes.
Wellness
RuPaul shares his insights on self-expression and authenticity in his MasterClass. As a pioneer in the mainstream drag subculture, he provides an intimate look into his personal journey towards self-realization. The class includes 16 video lessons and has a total runtime of 2 hours and 1 minute.
In her MasterClass, Emily Morse, the host of the podcast Sex With Emily, aims to normalize conversations around sex and communication. She teaches viewers how to communicate their desires effectively, identify their preferences, and explore new sexual experiences. The class comprises 7 video lessons and has a total runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes.
My MasterClass Experience
I am ready to share my personal experience of taking a MasterClass, as I am someone who is not very skilled in the kitchen and always searching for fresh recipes and ideas. I decided to try Yotam Ottolenghi’s MasterClass: Teaches Modern Middle Eastern Cooking, thinking it would be a fantastic starting point.
On first impression, I am thoroughly impressed with the overall design of the MasterClass and how easy it is to navigate. The creators have undoubtedly put a lot of thought into making the experience user-friendly.
Video Lessons
Its video lessons are listed on the right side, making it straightforward to follow and easy to find (see image below). You are free to pick and choose which video classes you watch in whatever order, but obviously the lessons do have a natural flow in the order given. For example, in this case, you have the Mezze Spread: Muhamara as video lesson 2 and Thoughts on Hosting as video lesson 15.
The video lessons are captivating and expertly produced, making it seem like a cooking show on Netflix. I found each lesson enjoyable and left feeling motivated and inspired. It’s worth noting that many of the celebrity instructors are well-versed in being on camera and have honed their skills in captivating and inspiring their audience over the years. After completing a MasterClass, you’ll likely feel energized and eager for more.
My Notes
While progressing through the video lessons, you have the option to jot down notes on the key takeaways or words of wisdom that you want to retain from the VIP instructors, like Yotam Ottolenghi, who is known for his culinary skills. The notes section is divided into each lesson, enabling you to take notes on each particular session. It’s a beneficial feature to have, serving as a contemporary-day notebook. While I’m uncertain how frequently you would use it, having this feature wouldn’t harm.
Workbook
The MasterClass provides a downloadable workbook in PDF format, which, in this instance, contains a cookbook featuring all the recipes and ingredients covered in the MasterClass. The workbook is aesthetically pleasing and well-organized, serving as a valuable resource to review and remember the content of the MasterClass.
Discuss with members
If you wish to engage with other MasterClass members, this platform provides you with the opportunity to do so. At the end of each video page, there is an option to JOIN THE DISCUSSION where you can communicate with other members by asking questions, sharing thoughts, and receiving feedback about the video lessons you have watched. The community has a filter system in place that enables you to sort the discussion points based on category, topic title, and the most useful filters, LATEST and TOP, which allow you to follow all the latest discussion topics. Moreover, you can create a New Topic of your own without any restrictions.
The typical number of discussion topics per month for most MasterClasses is around 3 to 4. The MasterClass Team appears to be available to assist and address users’ inquiries. While there is some degree of community and conversation among members, it is not particularly remarkable. The discussions revolve around sharing recipes and asking about the origins of cooking equipment. However, it is unlikely that Yotam Ottolenghi himself will respond to your inquiries, so you will have to rely on the MasterClass team or other members for support.
To summarize
Before wrapping up the reasons to take a MasterClass, it’s important to address certain areas that may not meet your expectations from an online learning platform. MasterClass doesn’t provide any certificate or formal accreditation, which is better suited for platforms like Coursera or edX. Additionally, there are no quizzes, coursework, or deadlines offered, so platforms like Skillshare or Udacity would be more appropriate for such requirements. Lastly, if you’re seeking a more diverse range of categories and topics, then Udemy and LinkedIn Learning are the preferred platforms for a larger quantity of options.
You will love MasterClass for:
- It’s highly engaging video lessons
- Well Produced and beautifully shot videography
- Option to watch the video lessons when it suits you
- Downloadable Workbook
- To discuss thoughts and ask questions to the community
- The year membership gives you plenty of time to enjoy the full platform of classes
MasterClass Sessions
MasterClass has recently launched a new learning format called Sessions, which provides a unique opportunity to learn by doing. In this format, you will work on projects and activities alongside the best instructors in the world, following a structured curriculum that can be completed in just 30 days. Sessions encourage active participation and require you to complete real-world projects, which can be shared with a community of engaged learners. In addition, you will receive feedback from trained teaching assistants to enhance your learning experience.
One of the current sessions is ‘Elevate your singing and stage presence’ with Christina Aguilera. There are 6 sections available, and the hands-on curriculum will leave you with the ability to sing s stage-worth performance.
The ‘Create 8 award-worthy bakes’ session with Joanne Chang is designed to elevate your baking skills by teaching you 8 bakery-ready recipes. In this session, you will learn the fundamentals of making cakes, cookies, pies, and brioche, while also engaging with a community of fellow learners. By the end of the 30-day curriculum, you will have acquired new techniques to enhance your baking expertise.
Sessions are tailored to accommodate learners of all proficiency levels, and the well-structured curriculum ensures that you make steady progress from one session to another. You will have the opportunity to engage with an enthusiastic community, seek constructive criticism, and interact with your fellow learners. The cherry on top is that you can access Sessions with your MasterClass subscription at no additional cost.
What’s The Best Way To Watch MasterClass?
MasterClass is a platform, you can watch and enjoy its classes from any of the following devices;
- Laptop & Desktop
- iPhone & Andriod
- Amazon Fire TV & Apple TV
- Tablet
There is no definitive way to watch MasterClass, as its streaming and syncing on each device is seamless. It’s best to enjoy its classes on the device that you find most enjoyable. It really depends on the class you’re taking, as some film or acting MasterClasses may be best on a larger screen, whereas others, like cooking classes, may be best on a smaller screen that you can easily take to your kitchen.
When I took Yotam Ottolenghi’s Middle Eastern Cooking Class, I used my laptop because I enjoyed following the cooking classes on a good-sized screen while following along in my kitchen. However, if you’re on the go, the MasterClass app works flawlessly on your phone or tablet, allowing you to enjoy classes while on the move or at home on your preferred device.
In conclusion, there is no perfect way to watch a MasterClass. You need to consider the class you’re taking and where you want to watch it.
The MasterClass App
As previously stated, for those who prefer learning on-the-go, the MasterClass App is a great option. It can be downloaded by both iOS and Android users, and features an audio-only option as well as offline viewing capabilities that are similar to a podcast-style experience.
When I took the MasterClasses myself I didn’t use the App for learning as I preferred to watch classes via my laptop in a quiet space at home. But if you enjoy learning on the go or for a passive learning experience the App is ideal.
8 Tips To Find The Perfect MasterClass
Browse the categories
MasterClass has categorized its 180+ classes into 11 categories, making it easy for you to browse through its collection of great courses. These categories include Food, Design & Style, Arts & Entertainment, Music, Business, Sports & Gaming, Writing, Science & Tech, Home & Lifestyle, Community & Government, and Wellness.
When you land on the homepage, you can pick any of the topics you are interested in, and MasterClass will show you all the classes in that category and will interest you. It’s a really nice filter and a quick way to find what you are looking for (see image below).
Video Preview
Each MasterClass offers a 2-minute video preview that provides a glimpse of what the class and instructor have to offer. These previews are more akin to movie trailers than course introductions, and are bound to capture your attention.
Remember though that the purpose of the video preview is to get you hooked and wanting to by a MasterClass membership. So, really try to make a well-rounded decision if MasterClass is right for you.
MasterClass Live
MasterClass Live is the closest alternative to free classes and trials provided by MasterClass. Here, you can watch instructors sharing their knowledge, giving you a glimpse of their teaching style. If you miss the scheduled live recording, you can always catch up on previous live recordings at your convenience.
MasterClass Articles
MasterClass provides free articles related to its categories like Food, Design & Style, Business, Wellness, and more, which are available to all users. These articles cover various topics and are authored by MasterClass VIP instructors, such as ‘How to Make Pureed & Mashed Potatoes with Thomas Keller,’ or by MasterClass staff, such as ‘Basketball 101: 8 Ways to Improve Your Basketball Skills.’
All of the articles are related to one of the classes that MasterClass offers, which is a nice way to introduce a topic to a new user and potential interest in joining a class.
Celebrity & VIP Instructors
MasterClass is renowned for its celebrity and VIP instructors who teach video lessons. The platform boasts a lineup of world-renowned experts, such as Gordon Ramsey and Serena Williams, among others.
If you want to learn from a well recognized expert, then MasterClass really has a highly attractive pool of instructors teaching its classes. If you are a big fan of one of its instructors, then it is definitely worth checking out a class or two.
New classes
Every month, MasterClass updates its catalogue of classes by adding new classes. This keeps its content fresh and new and means there is always something for its members to be excited about.
Read Reviews
To gain insights about an online learning platform, it’s often helpful to hear from other learners. MasterClass features some reviews on its homepage, although it’s worth noting that these may not be the most comprehensive or tailored to specific classes. Nonetheless, these reviews can provide reassurance to new users that others have had positive experiences with the platform.
Refund your annual subscription
It can be difficult to determine whether an annual MasterClass membership is suitable for you prior to purchase. Without free classes, trials, or a wide range of reviews from former students, it’s challenging to evaluate whether this online platform will meet your needs. Fortunately, MasterClass provides a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, which means that you can be confident that if it isn’t the right option for you, you have a month to request a refund.
From my own experience, I can say that the refund process was effortless and straightforward. All I had to do was submit a request, and the support team contacted me immediately. I received the refund within five days of the request. However, it’s worth noting that MasterClass states that it may take between 5-10 business days for the funds to be returned to your account.
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