Tuts+

Since 2007, Tuts+ has been providing users with an inexpensive way to learn anytime, anywhere with a system that is not specifically structured to follow a certain learning formula. For an affordable membership signup, users get the following:

• Access to over 18,500 free tutorials
• Access to over 450 video courses
• Access to community discussion boards where students can provide feedback, ask questions and generate educational talk with fellow students.
• Downloadable eBooks that relate to all tutorials and courses

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The Good

• Competitive pricing
• Course formats

Tuts+ prices are highly competitive with other companies in the online learning community. Users can also cancel memberships at any time, though they can still use the site until the subscription period expires. Tuts+ also offers free tutorials that anyone can watch and all videos offer two free previews. If this offer interests customers but they still aren't ready to commit, Tuts+ allows users a 14-day free trial in which they have access to all videos and tutorials. Perhaps one of the best functions of Tuts+ is the ability to download videos and watch offline. This makes learning from anywhere and anytime possible for students. In addition to their video courses, Tuts+ offers eBook downloads covering design and illustration, 3D graphics, business, and much more. These eBooks do not cost anything beyond the subscription fee that customers are already paying for Tuts+'s video courses.

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The Bad

• Customer service
• Progress tracking

The lack of Customer Service accessibility is one of the downers for Tuts+. In the event of an account emergency or an urgent question, users have no immediate access to assistance and are forced to wait for a response via email. This complicates the communication process. Similarly, students have no way to communicate with video instructors. All questions, feedback and comments are entered in a community comment section and are at the mercy of fellow students. Lastly, students are accountable for tracking their progress because none of the Tuts+ courses provides assignments, actives or tests in which students can test the skills they have been learning. While this may be doable for self-driven individuals, young students will most likely need the guidance or drive of an older adult to track learning progress.

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The Bottom Line

Tuts+ is a decent online learning option. As a relatively young company, there are quite a few areas in which Tuts+ can grow and develop to further offer student the best possible education. However, the price is hard to beat for the amount of content provided on the page. The fact that students are able to personally control their learning adds freedom to the educational process, and the educators of Tuts+ are professional individuals with knowledge and passion for teaching. The subjects covered are fairly specific though, so users should try the 14-day trial or really explore the different courses and tutorials offered before committing to a full membership.