Is online job training for everyone? Experimental evidence from Costa Rica

At MIDE Development, we conducted the impact evaluation of an online job training program implemented in Costa Rica through the Coursera platform. The objective was to analyze the effectiveness of this type of training in improving employment opportunities for populations with different educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The study, developed with the support of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), used an experimental design to identify the effects of offering high-quality online courses on access to training, employability, and beneficiaries’ perceptions. The results show a positive impact on course participation, but significant barriers remain for individuals with lower human capital and limited technological access.

The objective of the research was to assess the extent to which free and guided access to Coursera online courses:

• Increases participation in job training.
• Improves skills and employment prospects.
• Identifies inequalities in program uptake based on sociodemographic characteristics.

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with over 1,500 participants.

• Treatment group: Free access to the Coursera platform and initial guidance.
• Control group: No additional access to Coursera during the study period.
• Data sources: Baseline and follow-up surveys, as well as platform usage records.
• Impact measurement: Participation in training, course completion, self-perceived skills, and changes in employment status.

Key findings

Training participation

• +36 percentage points in the likelihood of enrolling in an online course.
• Significant increase in course completion among those with tertiary education or prior experience in digital training.

Gaps in program uptake

• Individuals with lower education or limited access to quality internet had considerably lower completion rates.
• Factors such as digital literacy and available time strongly influenced training success.

Employment outcomes

• No statistically significant changes in short-term labor market insertion.
• An increase in participants’ confidence regarding their employability and technical skills was observed.

Satisfaction and perceptions

• High satisfaction with course quality, especially in technology and business areas.

Lessons and recommendations

• Overcoming access barriers: Combine online course offerings with support for connectivity, equipment, and basic digital skills.
• Guided support: Tutoring or mentoring can improve course completion, especially among groups with less digital experience.
• Integration with active labor market policies: Link online training with job placement services and internships to enhance employability outcomes.

The evidence from Costa Rica confirms that online training can expand access to quality job training, but it is not equally effective for everyone. To achieve inclusive impact, it is essential to complement digital access with targeted support for more vulnerable populations. At MIDE Development, we reaffirm our commitment to generating evidence that informs the design of more equitable and effective training programs.