For Platzi's live classes, should we focus on increasing class frequency or extending session duration to maximize student engagement and completion rates?

Introduction

The trade-off we're examining today is whether to increase class frequency or extend session duration for Platzi's live classes to maximize student engagement and completion rates. This scenario involves balancing the quantity of learning opportunities against the depth of each session, both of which could potentially impact student outcomes. I'll analyze this trade-off by considering various factors including user behavior, technical constraints, and business objectives.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on Platzi's current class structure, I'm thinking there might be a specific target for optimal class length. Could you share the current average duration of live classes and how frequently they're offered?

Why it matters: Helps establish a baseline for comparison and identifies potential improvement areas. Expected answer: Classes are currently 60 minutes long, offered twice a week. Impact on approach: Would inform the range of durations or frequencies to test.

• Considering Platzi's revenue model, I'm assuming this decision could impact subscription renewals. How does class engagement currently correlate with subscription retention?

Why it matters: Connects the trade-off to business outcomes and long-term sustainability. Expected answer: Strong correlation between high engagement and renewals. Impact on approach: Would prioritize metrics that indicate long-term engagement over short-term participation.

• Looking at user segments, I'm curious about the diversity of Platzi's student base. Do we have data on how different user groups (e.g., working professionals vs. full-time students) engage with live classes?

Why it matters: Ensures the solution considers various user needs and behaviors. Expected answer: Mix of user types with different engagement patterns. Impact on approach: Would necessitate a segmented analysis and potentially different strategies for different user groups.

• From a technical perspective, I'm wondering about the scalability of our live class platform. Are there any constraints on increasing class frequency or duration?

Why it matters: Identifies potential technical limitations that could impact implementation. Expected answer: Current system can handle moderate increases without major upgrades. Impact on approach: Would influence the range of options we consider feasible for testing.

• Regarding resources, I'm thinking about the impact on our instructors. How flexible are they in terms of increasing their time commitment?

Why it matters: Ensures the solution is feasible from a human resources perspective. Expected answer: Instructors have some flexibility but significant increases would require additional hiring. Impact on approach: Would need to balance student needs with instructor capacity and potentially consider instructor satisfaction metrics.