What is cohort based learning?

Imagine walking into the gym alone, unsure of what to do, feeling unmotivated, and struggling to stay consistent. Now, imagine having a workout buddy—someone to push you, hold you accountable, and celebrate your wins. Colab is that buddy  – helping build the confidence and impact of product professionals.

What is Cohort-Based Learning?

Cohort-based learning is a model where a group of people learns together within a live structured program. Instead of passively consuming content at your own pace (like a traditional online course), you’re actively engaging with peers, instructors, and real-world challenges. It’s a high-energy, interactive learning experience that mimics the camaraderie and accountability of group fitness classes.

How Many People Are in a Cohort?

At Colab, our cohorts are usually 10 -15 people. We like to keep the cohorts small so everyone can get to know each other and get a chance to interact. If a cohort gets too big, we find this lessens the opportunity for collaboration. The key is that everyone is on the same journey, starting and finishing together, creating a sense of shared progress and accountability.

How to Get the Most Out of a Cohort-Based Course

Just like getting the best results at the gym, preparation is key. Here are some ways to maximise your experience:

• Show up consistently – The more you engage, the more you’ll learn.
• Participate actively – Ask questions, share insights, and contribute to discussions.
• Connect with your cohort – Build relationships with your peers. These connections often last beyond the program.
• Apply what you learn – Treat it like a workout; practice and refine your skills as you go.
• Embrace feedback – Just like a personal trainer gives corrections, constructive feedback in a cohort helps you grow.

What Are People Saying About Cohort-Based Learning?

The experience of learning in a cohort is transformational. Here’s what past Colab participants have said:

“The training content was thoughtfully focused on what really matters and the team discussions were simply great!”

“I have found it both engaging and useful in both reinforcing what I know about product management but also challenging long-held (potentially incorrect) beliefs.”

“The best thing about part of the Colab sessions, had to be the practical break out rooms, ensuring we had hands-on experience with our cohort to build on, debate and pivot on ideas and apply taught frameworks.”

“Colab was a great combination of reinforcing (and putting some structure) around things I already knew and introducing some new concepts, nuance, and frameworks that I can apply to my everyday work.”

Why Cohort-Based Learning Works So Well

The benefits of CBL go far beyond just completing a program. Here’s why it’s so effective:

1. Higher Completion Rates

Traditional online courses often have completion rates below 5-15%. In contrast, Colab’s cohort-based programs boast much higher rates— as high as 97%. The combination of accountability, structure, and peer support keeps you engaged and on track.

2. Increased Satisfaction

People who complete cohort-based programs report feeling more fulfilled and confident in applying their skills. The mix of hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration creates an immersive and enjoyable experience.

3. Learning Alone Is Tough

Let’s be real—self-paced learning can be isolating. Without deadlines or a community, it’s easy to deprioritise learning when life gets busy. Cohorts provide the structure and encouragement needed to stay committed.

4. Accountability and Peer Support

Just like a gym buddy pushes you to complete that last rep, your cohort peers keep you accountable. You’re in it together, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating wins along the way.

5. Diverse Perspectives and Insights

One of the biggest advantages of learning in a Colab cohort is exposure to different perspectives from various roles and industries. Members often mention how valuable it is to hear different approaches to similar challenges, gaining fresh ideas, or simply feeling reassured that others face the same struggles. This diversity of thought helps broaden problem-solving skills and encourages innovative thinking.

Ready to Learn with a Cohort?

If you’ve struggled to complete online courses on your own or want a more engaging way to learn, cohort-based learning might be the perfect fit. If you are looking to accelerate your product leadership skills, build your product strategy knowledge or foundational understanding of product management, we have got you covered.

Colab has programs that align with your goals – check them out here

Commit to the process and watch how much more you achieve with a supportive and engaged group around you. So, are you ready to train your career like you train your body? 🚀