In an ever-evolving digital landscape, it’s more vital than ever to keep your tech skills and knowledge fresh. The rise of technology means that professionals who want to keep up with the rapid pace of the future must stay ahead of the game.
The great thing about technology is that it’s making it more possible than ever to upgrade your skillset without spending a fortune on going back to school.
Nearly 77% of U.S. companies offer e-learning courses for team members to sharpen their skills and boost professional development. Mobile learning (mLearning) is on the rise. With 67% of people using their phones and tablets to access educational material, the market is predicted to reach $37.6 billion by 2020. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg on learning opportunities. Gamification, video learning, social learning, and microlearning. As you crack into technology, the options are virtually endless.
And the best part is that many opportunities are absolutely free. MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) are free online courses that anyone can enroll in at no charge. So without further adieu, here are the top skill sharpening websites you should sign up for ASAP to move your skills into the future, enhance your resume, and boost your chances of getting the job of your dreams.
MOOCs
Free (or mostly free) online courses could be just what you need to tap into nearly any topic you can imagine. Want to
learn coding or Deep Learning? No problem. MOOCs usually won’t give you an accredited certificate at the end of their learning experience, even when taught by
professors at top universities. Their emphasis is on pure learning. So if you want to build upon your tech skills or learn something new in a flexible environment, then they offer a great place to start. You can
launch your skills with these top-rated MOOC platforms:
Coursera;
edX;
Udacity. Also,
check out MITs selection of tech-focused courses to boost your IT and computer skills.
E-Learning
These semi-online courses are meant to complement in-class learning, and utilize online platforms, tools or portals to connect student with professor and material. E-Learning courses offer a closed environment that students can access after paying their registration fees. Offered through universities or e-learning platforms, these courses typically enroll and evaluate a set number of students and offer accredited certifications. However, online courses usually entail meeting at least once a semester with your professor, so enrollment would be dependent on your geography. Check with your local college or university for their offerings.
Distance Learning
If you’re dead-set on getting a university education or gaining knowledge from an accredited university, perhaps to apply toward a degree, you can always check out distance learning programs from your favorite university. You never have to step foot on campus, making these programs ideal for students anywhere in the world.
Check out the list of accredited schools from the National Education Association (NEA).
Penn State World Campus has been ranked top among Best Online Bachelor in Information Technology degree programs.
Arizona State University School of Computing, Informatics, and Decision Systems Engineering is close behind.
With so many opportunities just waiting for you to create an account, there’s no reason or excuse to put off your education any longer. Log in and start learning. Here’s to the future of tech, and you!
