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Cheap [or free!] online learning resources
Hello everyone! In today's world, continuous learning is key to success. But who said learning has to be expensive? The good news is that there are plenty of online resources that allow you to expand your knowledge without having to empty your pockets. In this article, we will reveal 60 affordable (and many free!) options for you to start investing in your future today. Are you ready to discover a universe of possibilities?
Think about it: no commuting, no fixed schedules, no pressure from a traditional classroom... Online learning offers you unparalleled flexibility and convenience. Plus, by eliminating the costs associated with an in-person course (classroom rentals, printed materials, etc.), online platforms can offer much more competitive prices, or even completely free courses! It's a true democratization of knowledge.
When we talk about "cheap," we're referring to resources that offer great value for a very affordable price. They might require a small monthly investment or a one-time payment for a specific course. And when we say "free," we really mean it! Many of the resources we'll show you offer free access to high-quality content, whether through full courses, trial versions, or supplementary material.
Access to knowledge has never been easier. Thanks to the "open knowledge" philosophy, today we can find a huge amount of free educational resources on the internet. It's like having a universal library at your fingertips!
MOOC platforms are, without a doubt, one of the greatest examples of free online learning. They offer courses taught by universities and experts from around the world, covering a wide range of topics. Although some courses offer paid certificates, most of the content can be consumed for free.
Coursera collaborates with renowned universities like Stanford, Yale, and the University of Michigan to offer courses, specializations, and even online degrees. You can access most courses for free to learn the content, although you'll need to pay to get a certificate. Can you imagine learning directly from the world's best professors without leaving your home?
Like Coursera, edX offers courses from prestigious universities like Harvard, MIT, and Berkeley. The platform focuses on collaborative learning, encouraging interaction among students. It also offers MicroMasters programs, which allow you to earn university credits for completing a series of online courses.
Khan Academy is a free platform that offers video lessons and interactive exercises on math, science, economics, and humanities. It's an ideal tool for students of all ages, from children to adults who want to review basic concepts or delve into specific topics. It's like having a personal tutor available at all times!
YouTube isn't just for cat videos and music. It's an endless source of educational content. There are thousands of channels dedicated to teaching languages, programming, cooking, music, and countless other topics. The key is to find quality channels and follow a structured study plan. Want to learn to play the guitar? Or how to program in Python? YouTube has you covered!
Digital libraries offer free access to books, articles, magazines, and other informational resources. Platforms like Europeana, the Hispanic Digital Library (Biblioteca Digital Hispánica), and Project Gutenberg allow you to explore classic works, historical documents, and a wide variety of public domain texts. It's like having a giant library in your pocket!
Sometimes, it's worth investing a small amount of money to access higher-quality content, more comprehensive courses, or certificates that allow you to stand out in the job market. Fortunately, there are platforms that offer paid courses at very affordable prices.
Udemy is a platform that offers thousands of online courses at very competitive prices. You can find courses on programming, web design, digital marketing, personal development, and many other topics. The platform often offers discounts and promotions, so keep an eye out to get the best prices. Need to learn a new skill quickly? Udemy is your ally!
Skillshare focuses on learning through practical projects. The courses are designed for you to apply what you learn immediately, creating projects you can add to your portfolio. The platform offers a free trial, and then you can access all courses with an affordable monthly subscription. Are you creative and do you like to learn by doing? Skillshare is for you!
LinkedIn Learning offers courses focused on professional development, covering topics like leadership, project management, communication, and technical skills. The platform integrates with LinkedIn, allowing you to showcase the skills you've acquired on your profile. It offers a free trial, and then you can access all courses with a monthly subscription. Want to boost your professional career? LinkedIn Learning is an excellent option!
Here are some tips to make the most of online learning resources without overspending:
Before buying a course, search for coupons and discounts online. Many platforms offer special promotions for new users or for specific courses. You can also subscribe to email newsletters to receive exclusive offers.
Many platforms offer free trial periods. Use these periods to explore the platform, try different courses, and decide if a subscription is right for you. Don't forget to cancel the subscription before the trial period ends if you don't want to be charged!
Before you start buying courses randomly, identify your learning needs. What skills do you need to acquire to achieve your professional or personal goals? Create a study plan and prioritize the courses that will help you reach your goals.
As you've seen, learning doesn't have to be a luxury. Thanks to the vast number of cheap (and free!) online learning resources available, you can now invest in your future without spending a fortune. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring, learning, and growing today! Knowledge is within your reach—you just have to take the initiative!
Read reviews from other students, check the instructor's curriculum, and make sure the course content fits your learning needs. Look for courses that offer a money-back guarantee.
It depends on the course. Some courses are designed for beginners, while others require prior knowledge. Read the course description to find out if you need any previous experience.
Some platforms offer paid certificates upon course completion. These certificates can be useful for demonstrating your skills to employers. However, the value of the certificate depends on the reputation of the platform and the course.
It depends on the course and your learning goals. Some courses require only a few hours a week, while others require more intensive dedication. Dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to studying and practicing—consistency is key!
Consider your learning needs, your budget, and your learning style. Explore different platforms and courses, read reviews from other students, and take advantage of free trial periods before making a decision.