Why traditional skills teaching is often a waste of time You’ve just paid money for yet another certificate programme and are excited to learn something new. As you go through the introductory materials, you find that the course wants you to spend three to four hours a week on study over the next 12 weeks. This doesn’t sound too bad, except you’ll need to take time away from your family to do it. You tell yourself: “This is an investment in me and it’s worth it.” Later in the week, you’re sitting in front of your computer, staring at the enormous amount of information in front of you. There are beautifully presented words with vivid images and entertaining videos.