Hi Coach,
Reading your post and survey prompted me to share some thoughts with you. I am an avid on-line learner. I don't even know how many classes, courses, seminars and such from various organizations on a variety of topics I have done but it is A LOT. What I have found to be the single best structure of this type of learning is the Coursera model.
Each class has a set start and end date, there are video presentations, home work, tests and due dates. They also have forums for students to teach each other specifics about the topic. BUT it is available to you 24-7 for the entire time the class is in session so it gives the best of both worlds. The structure to "get 'er done" as well as the freedom to do it on your own time. (as long as 'on your own time' fits within the set 6-12 week window)
Granted they are a non-profit group with a much more general idea of education. I think focused private groups like yours can use the same structural model as a base for enhanced client experience. Maybe even do like a live welcome on youstream to make it more personal at the start of the course and then from that point on they can go at their own pace. - Kinda like the mandatory going on campus for the first and last day of some colleges on-line programs. - That is something that I have not seen anyone do yet that could really set things apart.
Some of the other things I have done are much more free-form with no start or end date. While that still works for someone like me, the majority of people will respond better to 'structured freedom'. Especially when talking about artists.
I grant you all rights to the phrase "
structured freedom" that's a good one though, if I do say so myself.
If you would like to pick my brain further just send a note. Happy to help if I can.