Level Up Your Skills

While this period might seem as a big stop in your growth, both educationally and professionally, it does not have to be. Here is a list of the top skill development websites to learn during quarantine!

1. Codecademy:

Codecademy offers free basic accounts that give you access to basic courses and limited mobile access. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned tech pro, there are courses for every skill level on topics such as web development, programming, data science, design, and game development, as well as specific languages such as Python, JavaScript, SQL, C#, and Swift. It’s the perfect way to learn to code or brush up on a programming language for your resume.

2. EdX:

EdX is a massive open online course (MOOC) provider offering university-level courses developed by nonprofit organizations, schools and corporations. All programs offered through EdX are free and you’ll find courses from universities such as MIT and Harvard. Courses consist of interactive learning exercises, video tutorials, online forums for students to connect and ask questions, and online textbooks.

3. Harvard Online Learning:

Harvard Online Learning offers free online courses in technology, including game development, artificial intelligence, web programming, Python, JavaScript, mobile app development and computer science fundamentals. Courses are self-paced and require around six to nine hours of commitment per week; most take anywhere from five to 13 weeks to complete. Programs are taught by Harvard University faculty and staff and you will earn a verified certificate upon completion. It’s a great option for self-motivated learners who want to learn new skills and expand IT knowledge areas.

4. Microsoft Learn:

Microsoft Learn is a free online training program that offers training and certifications on specific Microsoft products. Courses are offered only for Microsoft products, such as Azure, Core Cloud Services, Microsoft 365, Power BI Desktop, Microsoft Teams and more. Each self-paced learning module includes an introduction to the topic, a lesson with all relevant information about the topic, and then a knowledge check for you to complete.

5. MIT OpenCourseware:

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers all its course material for free online. You can find course material for any undergraduate or graduate course offered through the university, so you don’t even have to apply to get an MIT education. You’ll get instant access to lecture notes, projects and examples, assignments, instructor insights and it’s all free.

6. Udacity:

Udacity courses aren’t always free, but in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company is offering a free month of its nanodegree programs in response to people losing employment due to the virus. Whether you’re working from home and have some spare time to advance your skills or you are out of work and want to be prepared to hit the job market as things turn around, Udacity offers several tech programs that can help you get trained on critical skills.

Now don't just sit there! Go learn!