Skillshare is a popular online learning platform where users can gain access to courses ranging from technology, illustration, creative writing, computer design, and so much more. In fact, with the paid subscription package, you have access to over 25,000 courses. Without a doubt, there is something for everyone among the many Skillshare courses.
For $15 dollars a month (or $99 if you renew annually) you have the ability to take engaging courses–many with a project-based focus. So once you complete the class, you not only have a new skill set, you also have something to put into your portfolio or show to a potential employer. Not a bad investment, right?
One drawback is the lack of certifications or credentialing once you complete a class. Since these classes are not accredited and mainly for your personal and professional development they won’t qualify as college level courses and may not be acceptable to some organizations as continuing education.
Of course, if you have a passion for learning and a personal desire to get better at what you do, Skillshare may be a great option. That said, there are other online learning platforms you may want to consider. Let’s take a look.
1. Udemy
Those with a passion for learning may find Udemy a great alternative to Skillshare. Like Skillshare, these courses are not accredited and are for the benefit of your own personal and professional development.
For example, if you want to learn more about website design, but don’t have the means to attend college, you can take courses and build your skills. It won’t count towards college credit, but that doesn’t mean you’re not gaining valuable knowledge.
With Udemy, you pay for each course you take. There are no monthly or yearly subscription costs. Simply choose the class you want (usually between $20 and $200) and complete it at your own pace. No deadlines. And you have lifetime access to review the course unless (in rare cases) it is deleted from the system. With over 100,000 classes, you have a wealth of knowledge to explore.
If you have a busy life and want to learn at your own pace, Udemy might be a great option. Since you don’t have a monthly subscription eating away at your bank account, you could choose a class when you have the time and funds to complete it.
2. Khan Academy
Online learning is a big business making billions of dollars a year. What if there was a non-profit company providing education to those of all ages for free? Well, there is. Khan Academy is a community of developers, designers, teachers, scientists, and content specialists with the sole inspiration of helping others learn.
This community of volunteers and donors wants to make education accessible to children all the way up to eager life-long learners. You can explore subjects like math, history, art, economics, and test preparation for free without any annoying ads or other distractions.
The platform uses short videos as well as practice exercises and teaching tools. While Khan Academy won’t replace traditional education, it may be a great free supplement for you or your child’s studies.
3. Coursera
If you are looking for more formal education resources, or even an online degree program, Coursera may be a good option. Courses on this platform are taught by experienced instructors from partnered educational institutions like Pennsylvania State University and Vanderbilt University.
With Coursera you can choose a single online class, specialization program, or online degree. In many cases, these courses are much less than those taught at universities and even community colleges. While individual courses may not replace traditional learning due to lack of credentialing, it is a great resource for your personal and professional development. Some courses are free and most cost under $100.
Specialized programs or an online degree can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. If you are admitted to the online degree program, however, every course you take is applied towards an actual college degree.
Start Learning Today!
Regardless of your educational goals, these resources can jumpstart your learning with the convenience of being online. From personal development to fulfilling traditional college degree requirements, online learning has become a valuable tool for those who want to expand their lives.
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