Ask HN: Books vs. MOOCs

#1

Post by 1qazxsw23edc » Tue, Aug 20, 2019, 10:10 PM UTC

What do you think is more valuable in learning new subjects? What should one focus on?

Personally, I learn more easily with MOOCs but retain more with books. Just want to know what is your preferred medium and why? Is there any research about it?

Re: Ask HN: Books vs. MOOCs

#2

Post by inaday » Tue, Aug 20, 2019, 10:17 PM UTC

Love this question. I like both.

I find MOOCs difficult to finish if there isn't a community angle + strong carrot or stick. YC Startup School offers carrot of getting into YC and the stick of having certain privileges removed if you don't attend group sessions.

I love books but find it's harder to read a book front to back when there are so many more engaging digital experiences out there.

Currently working on a startup called TLDR which summarizes the world's best books for startup founders and teams.

Check it out if interested: http://www.hellotldr.com

Re: Ask HN: Books vs. MOOCs

#3

Post by tedyoung » Tue, Aug 20, 2019, 10:28 PM UTC

As a Java trainer/coach, I find books to be a great resource for learning, and are woefully underused (under-read?). However, depending on what you’re learning, feedback of whether you’re on the right track is important. MOOCs are also useful, but the dropout rate is high, so be aware of that and ask for help.