There are more online learning platforms than ever before. So where to start? We look at what some of the most popular options specialise in.
Coursera
If you want to have access to the world’s top universities without having to pay the cost of higher education, check out Coursera. Offering more than 3,900 academic courses, Coursera also offers specialisations, online degrees and master’s degrees. Courses can be free but for full access expect to pay $29 to $99.
Future Learn
Another option for top-quality, online higher learning is Future Learn, which delivers expert teaching from lecturers at world-class universities and experts from prestigious organisations. There are options for short courses to learn new skills (or upskill), attain a professional accreditation and study for online degrees. Currently it’s just $189.99 for one year’s access to the short courses.
Udemy
If you’re looking for a flexible learning approach to bolster your professional credentials, Udemy offers over 130,000 online video courses across a large range of categories. The platform will also connect you with people undergoing the same challenges as you. Prices range from $10 to $200 per course (and you get lifetime access). One caveat: Udemy doesn’t have control over the quality of courses. So buyer beware.
LinkedIn Learning
With over 15,000 courses, and counting, this platform seeks to help users ‘learn from industry experts, and connect with a global network of experience’. It also provides personalised course recommendations based on your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn Learning suits if you want to supplement your current professional or educational experience ($19.99 per month with premium access to LinkedIn included).
Udacity and Edx.org
Looking for IT courses on topics like artificial intelligence, self-driving cars, data science or programming? If so, Udacity provides well-structured and top quality content with options for courses and ‘nanodegrees’. Edx.org, which was created by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University for students and institutions seeking to ‘transform innovative technologies’, is strong on data science, design, computer science and engineering.
Skillshare
If you want to explore or develop your creative side, check out Skillshare – an online learning platform that offers over 20,000 classes, projects and workshops. You can watch tutorials on everything from painting and animation to photography, filmmaking and creative writing. Annual subscription plans start at $8.25 per month. See also MasterClass, which offers tutorials with celebrity professionals including Garry Kasparov, Salman Rushdie and Gordon Ramsay.
This article was originally published for the thousands of expat partners that Global Connection supports around the globe. It is reproduced here in its original form.
