10 Ways to Send Courses for Free: A How-To Guide

February 2, 2024

1. Coursera Audit Option

Coursera offers an audit option that allows learners to access course materials for free. This includes video lectures, readings, and community forums. However, it's important to note that audited courses do not provide graded assignments or certificates upon completion.

Accessing the audit option is straightforward. Simply select the course you're interested in and look for the 'audit' or 'free' option during the enrolment process. Here's a quick guide:

  • Navigate to the Coursera website and sign up or log in.
  • Search for the course you wish to take.
  • Click on the course to view more details.
  • Look for the 'Enrol for Free' button and click on it.
  • When prompted, select the 'Audit' option to access the course without payment.
Remember, while auditing a course on Coursera, you can still participate in forum discussions and learn at your own pace. This is a great way to enhance your knowledge without financial commitment.

2. edX Audit Track

The edX Audit Track offers learners the opportunity to access course materials for free, without the need for payment. This option is perfect for those who wish to learn at their own pace without pursuing a verified certificate. Courses across a variety of subjects are available, from computer science to humanities.

To get started, simply search for the course you're interested in and select the 'Audit this course' option. Here's a quick guide:

  • Find a course of interest
  • Click on 'Enrol'
  • Choose 'Audit this course' to access materials for free

Remember, while auditing a course, you'll have access to all the instructional videos, readings, and discussion forums. However, you won't be able to submit assignments or receive grades. This is an excellent way to gain knowledge without the pressure of assessments.

The edX platform is known for its intuitive interface design, which makes the search for user-friendly courses straightforward. This aligns with tips for creating a high-converting sales funnel and monetizing an online course business.

3. Khan Academy

Khan Academy stands out as a pioneer in providing free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. The platform offers a vast array of subjects ranging from mathematics to arts and humanities. Courses are designed to be self-paced, allowing learners to progress at their own speed.

Learners can benefit from interactive exercises and videos to reinforce understanding. The content is suitable for students of all ages, making it a versatile resource for both school learners and adult education.

Khan Academy's approach to education is centred around mastery learning, ensuring that concepts are fully understood before moving on to more complex topics.

While Khan Academy is free, those looking to create and price their own online courses should consider various factors. A guide on pricing online courses effectively would suggest considering the audience, the work involved, and the competition. It's often recommended to start low for beginners and adjust as you gain expertise. For more detailed insights, one might look into FAQs on pricing strategies.

4. iTunesU

iTunesU presents a unique opportunity for learners to access a wide range of educational content from various prestigious institutions. Apple's commitment to education is evident through this platform, which seamlessly integrates with your Apple devices, making learning both convenient and accessible.

Courses on iTunesU cover a multitude of subjects, from the arts to the sciences, and are often accompanied by rich multimedia materials such as videos, PDFs, and podcasts. Here's a quick guide to getting started:

  • Download the iTunesU app from the App Store.
  • Browse the catalogue of courses and select one that interests you.
  • Enrol in the course and start learning at your own pace.
Remember, while the content is free, you'll need an Apple device to make the most of iTunesU.

For those interested in creating their own courses, iTunesU also provides a comprehensive guide on setting up for online course creation, featuring platforms like Canva, Wix, WordPress, and Weebly for easy content creation and website building.

5. MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW) is a treasure trove of educational resources provided by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It offers a vast array of content from undergraduate and graduate courses across the institute's various departments. Access to course materials is completely free, and there's no need to register.

Courses are available in a wide range of subjects, from Applied Mathematics to Urban Studies. While you won't receive official accreditation, the knowledge and insight gained can be invaluable. Here's a glimpse of what you can find:

  • Lecture notes
  • Assignments and solutions
  • Exams and answers
  • Multimedia content
OCW is ideal for self-learners seeking to expand their horizons at their own pace. It's a self-directed journey into the world of academia, with the freedom to explore complex topics without the pressure of grades or deadlines.

6. Stanford Online

Stanford Online offers a plethora of educational resources for learners around the globe. Access to many courses is completely free, allowing individuals to expand their knowledge across various subjects without financial barriers.

Courses range from humanities to hard sciences, and while some are self-paced, others may have a more structured timeline. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect:

  • Diverse course offerings in multiple disciplines
  • Self-paced learning options
  • Structured courses with timelines

Stanford Online is an excellent way to rekindle the joy of learning and take concrete steps towards your professional or educational goals.

Learners can use free courses to gain valuable knowledge and skills without the pressure of exams or assignments.

7. Harvard Online Learning

Harvard University offers a plethora of opportunities for the avid learner through its Harvard Online Learning platform. Explore a wide range of subjects from computer science to art history, all at no cost. The courses are designed to provide a rich, interactive experience with the same rigour as on-campus offerings.

To get started, simply:

  • Visit the Harvard Online Learning portal.
  • Browse the available courses.
  • Enrol in the course of your choice.
Remember, while the courses are free, some options to receive a verified certificate may require a fee.

Leveraging platforms like YouTube, with its extensive user base, can significantly enhance the reach of these educational resources. Additionally, integrating social media strategies can further amplify the impact of Harvard's free online courses.

8. FutureLearn

FutureLearn offers a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time and are accessible on mobile, tablet, and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life.

Learn new skills, pursue your interests or advance your career with our short online courses. Here are some steps to get started:

  • Choose a course that interests you
  • Sign up for free
  • Start learning immediately
FutureLearn provides an interactive learning experience with other learners from around the globe.

Remember, while many courses on FutureLearn are free to learn, you may choose to upgrade for additional features such as certificates of completion or unlimited access to course materials. Pricing varies depending on the course and the level of access you desire.

9. OpenLearn from The Open University

OpenLearn is the Open University's free learning platform, offering a wealth of courses across a variety of subjects. Explore a range of topics at your own pace, with the flexibility to start and finish according to your schedule. The platform is designed to be accessible, allowing learners to enhance their knowledge without the pressure of deadlines or assessments.

Courses on OpenLearn come with a variety of resources, including articles, quizzes, and interactive media to enrich the learning experience. After completing a course, learners can also obtain a free statement of participation.

OpenLearn is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to delve into new areas of study or to expand their professional skill set.

Here's a quick glance at what OpenLearn offers:

  • A diverse selection of courses
  • No time constraints
  • Interactive learning materials
  • Free statements of participation upon course completion

10. Saylor Academy

Saylor Academy offers a diverse array of courses that are entirely free to enrol in and complete. With a focus on professional development and college credit opportunities, Saylor is an excellent resource for those looking to enhance their skills without financial burden.

  • Courses cover a range of subjects from Business to Computer Science.
  • Each course is self-paced, allowing learners to study on their own schedule.
  • Assessments and a certificate of completion are available for each course.
Saylor Academy's commitment to free education is evident in their robust course offerings and the ability to earn college credits. Their platform is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that learners of all backgrounds can access and benefit from the material.

Clear and strong CTAs (Call to Actions) are essential for conversions. Saylor Academy understands this by allowing users to test with a free version, offering incentives for upgrading, and choosing the right pricing plan for their target market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sending courses for free is a great way to share knowledge and empower others. By utilising the 10 methods outlined in this guide, you can reach a wider audience and make a positive impact in the education sector. Whether you choose to use online platforms, social media, or traditional methods, the possibilities are endless. Remember, education is a powerful tool, and by sending courses for free, you are contributing to a more informed and educated society. So, go ahead and start sending those courses for free today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I earn a certificate for free courses on these platforms?

Some platforms offer free courses with the option to purchase a certificate upon completion. Check the specific platform for more information.

Are the free courses on these platforms of good quality?

Yes, many of the free courses offered by these platforms are of high quality and taught by reputable instructors.

Do I need to have any prior qualifications to enrol in these free courses?

Most free courses on these platforms are open to anyone with an interest in the subject, regardless of prior qualifications.

Can I interact with instructors and other students in these free courses?

Some platforms offer discussion forums and other interactive features for students to engage with instructors and peers.

How long do I have access to the course materials for free courses?

The access duration varies by platform, but generally, you have access to the course materials for a certain period after enrolment.

Can I download course materials for offline access in these free courses?

Some platforms allow you to download course materials for offline access, but this feature may not be available for all courses.

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