What Are the Best Free Online Learning Platforms?

The last couple of years have been marked by a tremendous shift in education. While not long ago, the only way to get an education was to be admitted to college, now things have changed drastically. Of course, this change was accelerated by the global pandemic too. But, things were evolving in this direction before the outbreak. Modern education is now represented by the option of enrolling in courses online. 

Taking them at your own pace gives you the freedom to have other activities as well. And the diversity of online courses you can find is immense. If you want to learn more about social psychology, there are many courses taught by top universities in the world. Also, you can learn more about the environment, social media, marketing, project management, business, economy, or computer science online. 

Most people now prefer online learning as it comes with many benefits. There is greater flexibility; it is cheaper and more accessible, and effective. So, there has been a rise in online learning platforms as well. Choosing the ones that are the best is something everyone wants to do. So, as we wanted to meet your needs, we have built this list of the best free online learning platforms. 

5 Best Free Online Learning Platforms in 2021:

1. Coursera 

Coursera is one of the most popular online learning platforms that offer free courses to anyone interested. The diversity of courses and classes you can enroll in is tremendous. No matter the subject you are interested in, on Coursera, you will indeed find a course on it. Coursera is collaborating with top universities around the world and offers video courses that are previously recorded. 

You can take them at your own pace and allow you the time to understand the information and grasp the subtleties. At the same time, on Coursera, you could get a master’s degree or specialization, as some universities have already started doing this online. You even get a diploma after you complete it, and some courses are also accredited. 

2. Udemy 

Udemy is another free online learning platform that is quite popular among those who want to improve and polish their skills. This is because the diversity of courses is incredible. Besides the typical subjects some might choose, such as finance or business, there are courses on topics that are pretty intriguing. For example, you can learn how to be a clown. You can learn how to work with children. 

You can learn to take beautiful photos or to cook delicious meals. Udemy is the platform that has over 150,000 courses that wait for you. Moreover, the courses are available not only in English but also in other languages like French, German, Japanese, Spanish, and many more. A downside of this platform would be that you need to pay for the courses you want to take. But the prices are quite affordable, starting at $9 per course. They often offer huge discounts, and you can buy them in bundles. 

3. Udacity 

Udacity is the best free online learning platform that offers courses on many subjects. The best thing about it is that field experts teach all the classes. So, the knowledge you will acquire will be up to date and valid. Students and not only can use Udacity to improve their skills practically. For example, if you are nervous about your next interview for a job, there are courses on Udemy that help you understand the event, prepare better for it, and be more relaxed. What is also worth mentioning is that you have a mentor on this platform that helps you navigate it and guides you in your pursuit. 

4. Masterclass 

Everyone out there is talking about Masterclass which is an online platform that offers courses on topics you can find on other platforms as well. But what is the best thing about Masterclass is that the courses you will find here are taught by celebrities and renowned experts in the field. For example, you can learn acting from Natalie Portman, the art of creative writing from Neil Gaiman, or how to cook delicious meals from Gordon Ramsay. 

However, you need to pay to take these courses. Thankfully, Masterclass has a solution for those who want to improve their skills but are short on budget. You can sign up for a monthly subscription of $15 that gives you access to all the courses. Or, you can sign up for a yearly subscription of about $180. You can also download the courses to have access to them offline, and, of course, you can take them at your own pace. But if you want to learn new things and improve your skills, you could do this from renowned specialists. And you do not find these courses on any other platform but this. 

5. Skillshare 

Another online learning platform is Skillshare that you can choose if you are looking for ways to improve your skills and gather new knowledge. It is important to note and keep in mind that you do not get any diploma after you complete the courses because none of them is accredited. However, Skillshare is a learning platform that should not be underestimated. Here you can find over 20,000 courses on a wide diversity of topics. You will find a lot here, from web development, graphic design, music, or creative writing to entrepreneurship, marketing, or leadership.

“Courses are created differently. Experts at Skillshare tried to make them as concise as possible while also emphasizing the practical experience,” says Peterson, a research paper writing service provider.

So, every course has a video part where you get all the information and then a practical activity to practice what you have just learned. You also get a 2-month free trial, during which you have access to all courses on the platform. You could continue to have free access to about 2,000 of their courses or pay $15 per month or $100 per year to access over 20,000 courses. 

Final Words 

People who want to gain more knowledge, develop new skills, or improve existing ones are constantly looking for ways to do this. If you have a passion, you should follow it. So, education has evolved tremendously, thanks to technological advancements as well. Modern education now relies heavily on online learning, as there is still a global pandemic ongoing. Coursera, Udemy, Udacity, Masterclass, and Skillshare are just some of the free online learning platforms you could check if you want to improve your skills. 

Here you can find a wide diversity of courses you can choose from. From music, photography, cooking, or singing to entrepreneurship, business, economy, psychology, or leadership. Some of them offer you accredited courses you can enroll into, while others bring you renowned specialists and celebrities who share insights, tips, and tricks. Choose the ones that best meet your needs and start your journey of knowledge.