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The internet teems with online classes that allow you to gain new skills and knowledge. But which of these tutorials are worth your time and money? We've come up with a comprehensive list, whether you want to take up a new hobby, boost your competence, or improve your workflow.

 

You can do almost everything online–shopping, medical consultations, work meetings, and education. 

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, online classes have been gaining popularity because of their convenience. With this setup, students don't have to commute to a physical space, which reduces expenses and the hassle of dealing with traffic. Because students can learn from their preferred location, they can better manage their studies alongside other duties for work and family.

Also read: How the Metaverse Can Transform Learning

Here are other advantages of online learning:

• Access to a variety of classes

In-person classes are usually limited by the subjects offered in your locality. But with online education, you get instant access to diverse courses offered by global institutions. Without geographical constraints, you can widen your options, enabling you to pursue your preferred field and instructors.

• Flexible pace

Many online courses offer downloadable readings and materials that can be accessed anytime, allowing students to learn at their own pace. This benefits those who need more time to absorb new concepts and balance their classes with other responsibilities.

• Better collaboration

Though students may not see each other in the flesh, virtual communication channels provide ample opportunities for interaction. Online discussions, video calls, chats, and emails can foster teamwork and increase engagement, letting students share ideas.

• Boosted technological competence

When you learn online, you also learn digital tools, which have become vital in our daily lives. Conducting online research, using project management apps, and maximizing digital communication platforms all hone your modern-day skills in academic and professional environments.

• More savings

You don't have to spend money on gas or transportation when you learn online. You also avoid school-related expenses like meals, textbooks, and campus fees. Some online companies also offer competitive pricing and financing schemes to appeal to more learners.
 

Choosing the right online learning platform

There are a lot of sites that provide educational training. For this article, we've limited our recommendations to three platforms–but remember, there are plenty more you can explore.

MasterClass

In 2014, a Stanford student founded MasterClass with only three mentors. Today this online education website has a wide range of courses taught by well-known specialists.

Each course comprises at least ten video classes that are two to four hours long. Aside from downloading work manuals, learners can take advantage of Sessions, a month-long hands-on learning workshop with peers and expert teaching assistants.

Domestika

This platform was first established in Spain, explaining why most lessons are in Spanish. But subtitles in other languages like English, French and German are always available. 

Domestika's headquarters are now in San Francisco, California– known for its dynamic creative community. It suits the company's artistic thrust perfectly since it has become the platform of choice for creatives.

Skillshare

Launched in New York in 2010, Skillshare offers in-demand skills in business, graphic design, web development and many more. By watching video lessons, students are expected to complete a project by the end of the course. Skillshare's focus is professional development, but it also offers hobby-centered content, such as gaming, music and photography.

Also read: EdTech: Tech for Teachers Today
 

6 skills you can build through online classes

We recommend some courses to develop these useful skills:

1. Cooking

From beginner-cook to master chef levels, the internet offers many lessons that will have you whipping up dishes in no time. It's great to learn cooking skills online because you learn different cuisines. Because videos give visual instructions, you can better pick up culinary techniques like knife skills and food presentations.

Recommended courses:

• Thomas Keller Teaches Cooking Techniques  (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Cake Design: Modern Decorating techniques (approx. US$8)
• Think Like a Chef: A Beginner's Guide to Cooking with Confidence (free 1-month trial period)

2. Arts

Online classes supply all sorts of art courses–from painting and sculpture to photography and writing. Because of their global resources, you get exposed to various art forms and techniques worldwide. This also allows you to exchange ideas with other artists, enriching your creativity.

Recommended courses:

• Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Daily Sketching for Creative Inspiration (approx. US$8)
• Learn to Draw: Daily Practices to Improve Your Drawing Skills (free 1-month trial period)

3. Business

While online business classes can give you a global perspective by exposing you to international trends and practices, these also provide networking opportunities. Online courses also update their lessons based on quickly-evolving business issues and strategies.

Recommended courses:

• Bob Iger Teaches Business Strategy and Leadership (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Launching Your First Online Business (approx. US$8)
• Building an Etsy Shop that Sells: Strategies for E-Commerce Success (free 1-month trial period)

4. Digital skills

Digital skills are a must-have in today's automated environment. Almost all fields require technical competence. Whether you're targeting a marketing, business or technology career, digital skills can unlock professional opportunities and boost your marketability.

Recommended courses:

• Dedmau5 Teaches Electronic Music Production (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Introduction to Adobe Photoshop (approx. US$7)
• How to Become a Graphic Designer-Complete Guide (free 1-month trial period)

5. Social media

Social Media has become a powerful tool in brand building and promotion. As a marketing practitioner, freelancer, or business owner, it's vital to learn effective communication to increase engagement. You can create captivating content and boost marketing efforts with social media know-how.

Recommended courses:

• Diane von Furstenberg Teaches Building a Fashion Brand (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Introduction to TikTok for Creatives (approx. US$7)
• Social Media Marketing: Top Tips for Growing Your Followers & Going Viral (free 1-month trial period)

6. Work productivity

There are several benefits of boosting productivity, including effective time management, organization, and work-life balance. By learning to work smarter, you gain professional and personal fulfillment. Thankfully, several productivity courses let you reduce stress while improving job satisfaction.

Recommended courses:

• Issa Rae Teaches Creating Outside the Lines (starts at US$10/monthly)
• Time Management Techniques for Creators and Creatives (approx. US$8)
• How to Organize Your Workflow to Maximize Productivity (free 1-month trial period)

Online classes provide an affordable and flexible way to improve and add to your skills. Take advantage of the countless opportunities for self-paced learning and self-improvement to jumpstart a lifetime of learning.

 

As one of the Top 19 EMS companies in the world, IMI has over 40 years of experience in providing electronics manufacturing and technology solutions. 

We are ready to support your business on a global scale.

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