Table 3.

Thematic analysis of VCQ open-ended responses—immediate value

Positive/negative	Theme	Description	Quote example
Positive	Knowledge Enrichment	Participants gained new knowledge and insights in various fields.	It broadened my knowledge on water purification methods and gave me insight in how calculations such as for pressure within Reverse Osmosis worked.
	Skill Development	Participants reported acquiring new skills and enhancing existing ones.	It helped me gain a new skill and knowledge.
	Confidence Boost	Engagement in courses increased participant’s confidence in their abilities and knowledge.	It gave me the confidence and knowledge that I lacked on the subject.
	Career Advancement	Participants felt the courses assisted them in their career growth and development.	Participation in the Coursework helped me acquire a lot of knowledge in the field of biomedical engineering.
Negative	No Practical Application	Participants felt the course lacked practical knowledge and application opportunities.	Didn’t get enough practical knowledge or the chance to exercise what I learned, while working in the construction industry.
	Expectation Mismatch	Participants had expectations about course content and format that were not met.	I expected a much different course. There were very few video lectures and notes.
	No Hope for Change in Their Career	Participants felt the course had little impact on their career or personal development.	It didn’t have a big impact on my career or personal development.
	Course Difficulty	Participants found the course challenging or too complex.	The first module was way too complicated for me.