Skillshare Launches in Philadelphia

Before education was moved to the heights and formality of the Ivory Tower, mentors passed their trades onto apprentices and families continued traditions passing down crafts from father to son. It’s this method of organic teaching that has become antiquated over the centuries. But with the help of the Internet, a newly launched company is bringing back an age-old tradition.

Skillshare is an online marketplace for off-line classes connecting those with something to teach with those looking to learn. Skillshare is out to launch a “Learning Revolution,” which is a big part of the company’s educational view. They believe that learning can happen anywhere and should not just revolve around formal training, like in universities.

Now they’re looking to attract teachers and students in the Philadelphia area. Right now, Philadelphia has nearly 200 signups and once Skillshare reaches 500, Philly’s classes will be available.

Skillshare’s New York City launch has been well received, with some class attendances topping out in the hundreds. There are sushi making classes, SEO intro courses, and even a seminar on how to live rent free in New York.

Teachers and students create a profile and create or sign-up for classes and pay online via PayPal. Skillshare keeps 15% of the revenue and the teachers get the rest. Prices vary from class to class and can cost anywhere from $5 for an intro to knitting to $150 for a day-long motivational seminar.

Classes are held in public places like cafes, bars, offices, and parks and require at least two students, for safety.

Verification that the teachers actually know the skills is relatively simple, thanks to social media and the power of the web, explained Skillshare’s Head of Special Operations in Philly, Brendan Lowry.

Teacher bios allow for teachers to explain their expertise, and link to their blogs, websites, social media accounts, featuring some of their work.

Visit Skillshare’s website for more information or watch the videos below.

What is Skillshare? from Skillshare on Vimeo.

Let's Start a Learning Revolution from Skillshare on Vimeo.