The Best Online Platforms To Learn A New Skill

For most of us, staying home has becoming the new normal, and it may seem like a lengthy amount of time inside with little to do. But instead of aimlessly browsing the internet, why not take this time to learn a new skill with these online platforms in the comfort of your own home?

For in-depth learning: Coursera

Coursera was founded in 2012 by Stanford professors Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller. With courses such as data science, engineering, business analytics, medicine and social sciences developed by leading universities and companies (think: Stanford University, Imperial College London, Google and IBM)—you know you're in for some serious learning.

Choose from various options including free courses and university degrees, and apply what you learn with self-paced quizzes and hands-on projects, all at your own pace.

Psst: For some arty inspiration, check out MoMA’s free Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) on Coursera. Hear from artists and designers, and look closely at works of art from MoMA's extensive collections and exhibitions.

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For creative exploration: Skillshare

Skillshare is an open, online learning community for creatives. Offering a wide plethora of courses—including graphic design, marketing and creative writing—taught by well-known contemporaries in their respective fields, the platform is geared towards lifelong learning and career enhancement.

Classes come in the form of short lessons culminating in a hands-on project; you can even share your work with your class to collaborate with and get feedback from peers.

For a local take on creative exploration: LASALLE Online Courses

LASALLE's Continuing Education Programme has introduced new Online Short Courses⁠⁠ in the fields of art and design, including acting, print design, and art installation⁠.

All classes—claimable under SkillsFuture credit—will be delivered via Zoom by trainers comprising faculty staff, alumni and industry experts, with the same number of hours as in-class courses.

For learning from global industry leaders: Masterclass

Masterclass boasts instructors who are global leaders in their field—notable names include celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, photographer Anne Leibovitz, and actress Natalie Portman—offering useful, practical insights that promise a wonderful learning experience. 

Each class has video lessons ranging from 2-5 hours long, exercises, workbooks, and interview sessions with the instructor.

Related article: Working From Home: How To Actually Get Things Done, According To Experts

For learning a new language: Babbel

Always wanted to learn a new language? Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, Babbel has got you covered. Choose from 14 languages such as Spanish, French and Swedish and start learning the basics, or zoom in on real-life topics like travel, culture, or business. \

What's more, you get to practice, review and improve your pronunciation with speech recognition technology; get immediate feedback to hone your speaking skills.

For honing your digital skills: General Assembly

General Assembly offers both online and in-person courses in web development, user experience design, data science, Javascript, digital marketing and more. 

Choose between immersive bootcamp-style experiences, part-time courses, and on-demand courses to suit your learning style and availability.

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