Boost your skills with free online courses

Distance learning is something that has been around for a relatively long time, with the Open University established in 1969.  However online resources have been coming increasing popular, with some of the most prestigious Universities offering free courses that can aid you in your job search.

With the job market being incredibly competitive, an online course could help you gain an advantage and help boost your job search, or you could brush up on some of your skills that you may not have used in a while. Whilst most of the free courses aren’t formally recognized or accredited, they can be used to show that you’re willing to improve and learn new skills if you’re currently out of work.

So here are some of the more (free!) popular resources out there:

Coursera:

Coursera are a relative newcomer in terms of sites, but have major backing in terms of the Universities providing resources.  From Stanford to the University of London, and a host of courses ranging from Gastronomy to Data and Network Analysis, even if it’s something that may not be directly affect your career or career prospects; you’ll be sure you can find something that’ll interest you!  Depending on each course and their respective University, you may get a statement of accomplishment or a Certificate of completion. 

edX:

Similar to Coursera, but run by other Universities including Harvard and M.I.T, edX has only a very small selection of courses available at the moment in time.  Again, like Coursera you’ll get a Certificate of completion if you complete all the assignments to their satisfaction.

Udacity:

Founded by a Stanford Professor, Udacity has only a small selection of courses offered at the moment, with an emphasis on Computer Science.  However if you’re looking to brush up your skills, or even looking at developing new ones, it’s worth considering looking at.

Code Academy:

Haven’t used a particular programming language in a while and want to remember some of the intricacies of them? Code Academy may have you covered.  You can track your progress and learn the basics (or more complex ideas) in Javascript, Ruby, Python and HTML being the main areas covered.

Khan Academy:

Whilst not a course based resource as it solely uses videos on various subjects, you’ll be able pick up some tips and advice on a range of topics.  With over 3400 videos on Khan Academy, with some based around Computer Science, such as looking to improve on your User Interface Ideas, you may be able to find something to help you.

With paid online courses available such as Learn Direct and Open University and others being offered occasionally on group discount sites, it’s never been easier to develop new skills from the comfort of your own home and in your own time!