Best Online Learning Platforms

Expand your academic horizons with the top online learning platforms! Check out our curated selection of online learning platforms for academics.

Online learning is great as it offers a flexible and accessible way to achieve these goals. 

However, with so many platforms available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are reputable, high-quality, and well-suited to your needs.

In this article, we present a carefully curated list of the best online learning platforms for academic learners. Our selection criteria focused on course quality, reputation, affordability, and user experience. 

By exploring this list, you will gain a better understanding of the top online learning platforms for your educational goals. These platforms offer a convenient and accessible way to develop new skills, learn about emerging research, and expand your academic interests, all while balancing your busy schedule and research commitments. 

Whether you’re seeking to expand your knowledge base, enhance your research capabilities, or simply pursue new academic interests, the online learning platforms presented in this article offer a practical and effective way to achieve your learning objectives.

Top Learning Platforms For Academics

Coursera – Make It Happen

Coursera is a popular online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses from top universities and institutions. The platform provides an interactive and engaging learning experience for users, with video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and discussion forums. 

Learners have access to a variety of resources and materials, including course syllabi, reading materials, and project guidelines, as well as a supportive community of peers and instructors. Coursera also offers certificates of completion and the option to earn degrees and professional certifications. 

The platform is accessible and user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for learners to navigate and find what they’re looking for. Overall, Coursera provides an enjoyable and effective learning experience for users.

Here are the top 5 courses on Coursera:

• Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate (Enrollments: 292,166 as of Feb 2023)
• IBM Data Science Professional Certificate (Enrollments: 162,397 as of Feb 2023)
• DeepLearning.AI TensorFlow Developer Professional Certificate (Enrollments: 164,896 as of Feb 2023)
• Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate (Enrollments: 1,424,619 as of Feb 2023)
• AWS Fundamentals Specialization (Enrollments: 13,413 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Coursera offers a diverse range of courses, from computer science to humanities
• Users can access the courses on Coursera anytime and anywhere, making it a convenient learning platform for individuals
• Provides certificates for completing courses, which can be valuable for individuals looking to enhance their resume
• Many courses for free, and the ones that require payment are usually reasonably priced
• Coursera courses often include interactive components such as quizzes, assignments, and discussion forums for better understanding

👎Cons

• Limited opportunities for learners to interact with instructors and receive personalized feedback
• Learners may not have the same level of peer interaction and collaboration as they would in a traditional classroom setting
• As Coursera partners with various universities and organizations, the quality of the courses may vary depending on the institution and the instructor
• Some courses on Coursera may not provide hands-on experience, which can be crucial in certain fields such as medicine or engineering
• While many courses on Coursera offer certificates, some do not, which can be disappointing for learners looking to showcase their achievements

💸Pricing – Coursera Plus has two types of pricing plans:

• Monthly: $59
• Annually: $399  

edX – Boost your Income with Better Qualifications

edX is a non-profit online learning platform that offers high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world. The platform provides an interactive and engaging learning experience, with video lectures, interactive quizzes, and discussion forums. 

Users have access to a wide range of resources and materials, including course syllabi, reading materials, and project guidelines. edX also offers certificates of completion and the option to earn degrees and professional certifications. 

The platform is accessible and user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for learners to navigate and find what they’re looking for. 

Overall, edX provides an enjoyable and effective learning experience for users who are looking for high-quality education from top institutions at an affordable price.

Here are the top 5 courses on edX:

• Introduction to Computer Science (Enrollments: 4,513,678 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python (Enrollments: 1,553,006 as of Feb 2023)
• TOEFL® Test Preparation: The Insider’s Guide (Enrollments: 1,436,765 as of Feb 2023)
• Shakespeare’s Life and Work (Enrollments: 77,695 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Biology – The Secret of Life (Enrollments: 203,137 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Selection of top universities around the world (e.g., Harvard/Yale, Cambridge/Oxford/Imperial College, University of Tokyo) covering a variety of subjects, including computer science, business, arts, and humanities
• High-quality courses designed by experienced educators and are often taught by well-known experts in their fields. The platform’s course content is of high quality and well-researched
• Interactive and engaging learning experience, with video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and discussion forums
• Free option – pay only if you want a certificate

👎Cons

• Limited Interaction with Instructors
• No Credits Transfer

💸Pricing

Courses: edX offers a range of courses, some of which are available for free, while others must be paid for. Paid courses for groups cost $349/learner/year 

Udacity – Skills with Impact

Udacity is an online learning platform that offers technology-focused courses and programs, such as web development, data science, and artificial intelligence. 

The platform provides an interactive and engaging learning experience, with video lectures, interactive quizzes, and project-based assignments. Udacity also offers a supportive community, with discussion forums and access to experienced mentors for one-on-one assistance. 

The platform’s interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it easy for learners to find what they need and stay on track. Overall, Udacity provides a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience for those looking to develop technical skills and advance their careers in technology fields.

Here are the top 5 courses on Udacity:

• Become a UX Designer (Enrollments: 133,601 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Engineering with AWS (Enrollments: 78,653 as of Feb 2023)
• Full Stack Web Developer (Enrollments: 112,798 as of Feb 2023)
• AWS Machine Learning Engineer (Enrollments: 77,987 as of Feb 2023)
• Deep Learning (Enrollments: 68,234 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Udacity collaborates with leading tech companies to develop courses that are relevant to the current job market
• Offers a unique credential called Nanodegrees, which are designed to teach specific skills in a particular field
• Udacity’s courses are self-paced, meaning students can learn at their own speed
• A supportive community of learners, mentors, and instructors who offer feedback and guidance

👎Cons

• Udacity’s courses and Nanodegrees are relatively expensive compared to other online learning platforms
• Course selection is limited compared to other online learning platforms
• Udacity’s courses are self-paced, meaning that learners have limited interaction with instructors
• Udacity’s courses require a high level of technical proficiency, including programming skills and familiarity with specific software

💸Pricing

• Courses: Udacity offers a range of courses, with prices starting at around $400 for a single course
• Nanodegrees: Udacity also offers Nanodegrees, which are multi-course programs and typically cost between $400 and $1,000

MasterClass – Learn from Masters

MasterClass is an online learning platform that offers high-quality video courses taught by renowned experts in their respective fields. The platform provides access to a wide range of classes, including cooking, writing, music, acting, filmmaking, and more. 

Each course is designed to provide an immersive learning experience, with in-depth lessons, practical exercises, and personalized feedback. 

The instructors on MasterClass are well-known and respected individuals, including celebrities such as Gordon Ramsay, Shonda Rhimes, and Neil Gaiman, who share their knowledge and expertise with learners around the world. 

MasterClass is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn from the best and gain insights into the creative processes and techniques of the world’s top professionals.

Here are the top 5 courses on MasterClass:

• Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing (Enrollments: 68,911 as of Feb 2023)
• Sara Blakely MasterClass – Self-Made Entrepreneurship (Enrollments: 79,010 as of Feb 2023)
• Daniel Pink MasterClass – Sales and Persuasion (Enrollments: 43,211 as of Feb 2023)
• Anna Wintour MasterClass – Creativity and Leadership (Enrollments: 34,213 as of Feb 2023)
• Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass – Scientific Thinking (Enrollments: 33,101 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• High-quality video lessons taught by renowned experts in their respective fields
• Wide range of classes available, covering various subjects, including creative arts, business, and more
• Immersive learning experience with practical exercises and personalized feedback
• Accessible on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers
• Community features, such as forums and social media groups, allow learners to interact and connect with peers
• Lifetime access to course content
• Access to MasterClass library for an affordable annual subscription fee

👎Cons

• Limited interactivity with the instructor
• No certificate or accreditation upon course completion
• Relatively expensive compared to other online learning platforms

💸Pricing – MasterClass offers three pricing plans:

• Individual: $15/month
• Duo: $20/month
• Family: $23/month

Skillshare – Unleash Creativity

Skillshare is an online learning platform that offers courses and workshops on a wide range of topics, with a focus on creativity and practical skills. 

With thousands of classes available, Skillshare provides users with the opportunity to learn and improve skills in areas such as graphic design, photography, writing, and more. The platform’s interactive and project-based approach allows learners to apply their knowledge and unleash their creativity. 

Additionally, Skillshare offers a community of like-minded individuals, enabling users to connect with peers and instructors and share their work for feedback and inspiration.

Here are the top 5 courses on Skillshare:

• Intro to UX: Fundamentals of Usability (Enrollments: 27,713 as of Feb 2023)
• Creative Nonfiction: Write Truth with Style (Enrollments: 19,684 as of Feb 2023)
• Mastering Productivity: Creating a System that Works (Enrollments: 143,475 as of Feb 2023)
• Personal Branding: Crafting Your Social Media Presence (Enrollments: 42,680 as of Feb 2023)
• Botanical Illustration (Enrollments: 24,871 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Wide variety of courses and workshops available on topics such as creative writing, graphic design, photography, and more
• Project-based approach enables users to apply their skills and gain hands-on experience
• Interactive platform fosters a sense of community and enables users to connect with instructors and peers
• Affordable pricing options make the platform accessible to a wide range of learners

👎Cons

• Quality of courses can vary, as anyone can become an instructor and create content for the platform
• Limited options for advanced or specialized courses
• Not all courses offer certification or accreditation

💸Pricing – Free plan with a premium option. 

Premium Plan with Access to the entire library of courses

• Ad-free
• Premium features such as offline viewing, progress tracking, and community features
• $2 per month or $24 per year

FutureLearn – Transform Your Future

FutureLearn is an online learning platform that offers free and paid courses on a wide range of topics from leading universities and organizations around the world. It was founded in 2012 and is owned by The Open University.

The platform is designed to make learning accessible to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. It provides interactive and engaging learning experiences that are facilitated by expert educators, enabling learners to develop new skills, explore new subjects, and achieve their career goals.

Some of the top courses offered on FutureLearn include:

• Understanding Anxiety, Depression and CBT – offered by the University of Reading
• Introduction to Cybersecurity – offered by the Open University
• Learn to Code for the Web – offered by the University of Leeds
• Teaching for Home Learning: Secondary Science – offered by the National STEM Learning Centre
• Digital Marketing – offered by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

These courses and many others on FutureLearn provide learners with high-quality educational content and a flexible learning experience.

Here are the top 5 courses on FutureLearn:

• Believe, Build, Become: How to Supercharge your Career (Enrollments: 311 as of Feb 2023)
• International Marketing (Enrollments: 1,128 as of Feb 2023)
• Strategic Planning: Target Markets and Business Decision-Making (Enrollments: 3,388 as of Feb 2023)
• Innovations in Fintech (Enrollments: 466 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Analytics Using Python (Enrollments: 451 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• FutureLearn offers a wide range of courses and degrees that are designed and taught by top universities and organizations, ensuring that the content is of high quality and rigor
• Provides a flexible learning environment where learners can study at their own pace and on their own schedule
• Courses are designed to be interactive, with quizzes, assignments, and discussion forums that allow learners to engage with the material and interact with their peers
• Many of FutureLearn’s courses are free, which makes it accessible to a wide range of learners from different backgrounds and income levels
• Offers accredited courses that can be used to earn credits towards a degree or professional certification

👎Cons

• FutureLearn offers a wide range of courses, the selection is still limited compared to other online learning platforms
• Offers courses in English, which may limit accessibility for non-native English speakers
• FutureLearn’s free courses are a great resource, they may have limited interactivity compared to the paid courses
• Learners can interact with their peers, the level of interaction with the instructor may be limited, especially in the larger courses
• Offers degrees from top universities, the cost of these degrees may be higher compared to other online learning platforms or traditional universities

💸Pricing

The regular price of unlimited access to online courses is $279.99/year. Currently FutureLearn is offering 30% off and courses are priced as $189.99/year 

Khan Academy – Free World-Class Education

Khan Academy is a non-profit online learning platform that offers a vast collection of educational resources for learners of all ages. The platform’s mission is to provide free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere, without any barriers to entry. Khan Academy offers a wide range of subjects, from math and science to history and economics, as well as test preparation courses for standardized tests like the SAT and MCAT.

Khan Academy’s courses are all free and open to anyone, and they are designed to be accessible and engaging for learners of all ages and backgrounds. The platform also offers interactive exercises, quizzes, and personalized learning features to help learners track their progress and achieve their educational goals.

Here are the top 5 courses on Khan Academy:

• Computer programming (Enrollments: 101,738 as of Feb 2023)
• Macroeconomics (Enrollments: 77,838 as of Feb 2023)
• Personal Finance (Enrollments: 11,328 as of Feb 2023)
• Test prep SAT (Enrollments: 10,987 as of Feb 2023)
• Prep LSAT (Enrollments: 3,993 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Free: All courses on Khan Academy are completely free, making it accessible to anyone, anywhere
• Wide Range of Courses: Khan Academy offers courses in a variety of subjects, from math and science to art and history
• Personalized Learning: The platform provides personalized learning experiences, allowing learners to track their progress and set goals
• High-Quality Content: The platform features high-quality educational content that is designed to be engaging and interactive
• Accessible: The platform is accessible to anyone with an internet connection and is available in multiple languages

👎Cons

• Limited Support: Khan Academy does not offer live support or tutoring, which may be a disadvantage for some learners who need more one-on-one assistance
• No Accreditation: Khan Academy does not provide any official accreditation or certification for its courses, which may not be suitable for learners who need a recognized credential
• Not All Topics Covered: While Khan Academy offers a wide range of courses, there are still some subjects that are not covered

💸Pricing

Khan Academy is completely free to use, and there are no hidden fees or charges

Treehouse – Learn Web Design & Development

Treehouse is an online learning platform that offers courses on web design and development. With Treehouse, students can learn programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more, through interactive video tutorials, quizzes, and coding challenges. 

The platform is designed to be beginner-friendly, with courses available for all skill levels. Students can track their progress and earn badges as they complete courses and projects. 

Additionally, Treehouse offers career-focused courses, allowing students to prepare for a career in web development. Overall, Treehouse is a great platform for anyone interested in learning web design and development.

Here are the top 5 courses on Treehouse:

• Introduction to HTML & CSS (Enrollments: 7,766 as of Feb 2023)
• Creating User Experiences (Enrollments: 1,128 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Analysis Basics (Enrollments: 3,367 as of Feb 2023)
• React Basics (Enrollments: 21,345 as of Feb 2023)
• SQL Basics (Enrollments: 11,324 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Wide range of courses on web design and development, including programming languages, frameworks, and career-focused courses
• Beginner-friendly platform with interactive video tutorials, quizzes, and coding challenges
• Clear and structured learning path, with progress tracking and badges for completing courses and projects
• Treehouse offers a 7-day free trial and a free basic plan with access to limited courses and features
• Affordable pricing plans, with a basic plan starting at $25 per month and a pro plan with more features and access to all courses for $49 per month

👎Cons

• Limited courses outside of web design and development, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more diverse range of topics
• Some users have reported outdated content or technical issues with the platform, although these seem to be relatively rare occurrences
• The platform may not be suitable for advanced learners who are already proficient in web design and development

💸Pricing – Treehouse offers a 7-day free trial, after which users can choose between two pricing plans:

• Basic plan: $25 per month, which includes access to a limited number of courses and features
• Pro plan: $49 per month, which includes access to all courses and features, as well as additional perks such as workshops and exclusive content

DataCamp – Master Data Science Skills

DataCamp is an online learning platform designed to help individuals acquire and master essential data science skills. The platform offers a wide range of courses, including programming in Python and R, data manipulation and visualization, statistical analysis, machine learning, and deep learning. 

DataCamp provides a variety of interactive tools and resources, including video lectures, coding challenges, and real-world projects, to help learners develop hands-on skills and experience with data science tools and techniques. 

With DataCamp, learners can choose their own learning paths, progress at their own pace, and receive feedback from a community of experts and peers.

Here are the top 5 courses on DataCamp:

• Introduction to Python (Enrollments: 4,721,574 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to SQL (Enrollments: 178,920 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Tableau (Enrollments: 161,438 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Analysis in Excel (Enrollments: 133,686 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Power BI (Enrollments: 213,062 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Wide range of courses covering essential data science skills
• Interactive learning experience with hands-on coding challenges and projects
• User-friendly platform with intuitive interface and engaging video lectures
• Adaptive learning approach that adjusts to learners’ progress and provides personalized feedback
• Community of experts and peers to ask for help and share insights
• Certificates of completion to demonstrate skills to employers

👎Cons

• Limited focus on specific data science tools and applications
• Limited opportunities for interaction with instructors and personalized support
• No formal accreditation or transferable credits
• Relatively expensive compared to other online learning platforms

💸Pricing

DataCamp offers a subscription-based pricing model with three options:

• Basic: Free
• Premium – $12.42/month
• Teams – $25/user/month
• Enterprise – Custom pricing for organizations and businesses, with features such as centralized billing, team management, and analytics

Coursera for Business – Upskill Your Team

Coursera for Teams is an online learning platform that provides access to professional development courses and training for companies and organizations. 

With Coursera for Teams, businesses can upskill their employees and enhance their knowledge and expertise in various fields, including technology, business, data science, and more. 

The platform offers courses from top universities and industry experts, allowing businesses to provide their employees with world-class education and training. 

Coursera for Teams also offers personalized learning paths and assessments to help employees track their progress and achieve their learning goals.

Here are the top 5 courses on Coursera for Business:

• Business Foundations Specialization (Enrollments: 156,459 as of Feb 2023)
• How to Start Your Own Business Specialization (Enrollments: 32,438 as of Feb 2023)
• Finance for Non-Finance Professionals (Enrollments: 151,055 as of Feb 2023)
• Business Strategy Specialization (Enrollments: 54,359 as of Feb 2023)
• Finance & Quantitative Modeling for Analysts (Enrollments: 27,400 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Access to a wide range of courses and training programs from top universities and industry experts
• Personalized learning paths and assessments to help employees track their progress and achieve their learning goals
• Flexible learning options, with courses available online and on-demand
• Cost-effective way for companies to provide professional development and upskilling opportunities to their employees
• Coursera for Teams offers a user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate and use

👎Cons

• Pricing can be high for small businesses or those with limited budgets
• Some courses may be too basic or advanced for certain employees, making it difficult to find the right fit for everyone’s needs
• The platform is focused on online learning, which may not be suitable for employees who prefer in-person training or face-to-face interaction with instructors

💸Pricing

Coursera for Teams offers flexible pricing plans that are tailored to the needs of businesses and organizations. Prices depend on the number of employees and the specific courses or programs that are selected. Some examples of pricing plans include:

• Team Plan: $399/user/year
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing based on the specific needs of the organization, with access to a full suite of features and customized solutions

365 Data Science – Your Path to Data Science

365 Data Science is an online learning platform that provides a comprehensive curriculum on data science, analytics, and business intelligence. 

It offers courses for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced users, and provides hands-on projects and assignments to help learners apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. 

The platform also has a supportive community of learners and instructors who can provide feedback and answer questions.

Top 3 courses offered by 365 Data Science are:

• Data Science Course: This course covers the entire data science process, from data collection and cleaning to machine learning and data visualization. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the data science field and teaches learners how to use Python and other tools to solve real-world problems.
• Tableau Course: This course focuses on data visualization and teaches learners how to use Tableau to create interactive and visually appealing dashboards. It covers topics such as data aggregation, chart types, and storytelling with data.
• SQL Course: This course teaches learners how to use SQL to extract and manipulate data from relational databases. It covers topics such as database design, querying, and joins, and provides hands-on experience with real-world datasets.

Here are the top 5 courses on 365 Data Science:

• Introduction to Data and Data Science (Enrollments: 6,442 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Strategy (Enrollments: 1,857 as of Feb 2023)
• Advanced Microsoft Excel (Enrollments: 952 as of Feb 2023)
• Starting a Career in Data Science: Project Portfolio, Resume, and Interview Process (Enrollments: 406 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Tableau (Enrollments: 766 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Comprehensive curriculum covering a wide range of topics related to data science, analytics, and business intelligence
• Suitable for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced users.
• Hands-on projects and assignments that help learners apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios
• Flexible learning model allows learners to study at their own pace and access course material anytime, anywhere
• Supportive community of learners and instructors who can provide feedback and answer questions

👎Cons

• Some courses may require prior knowledge of programming or statistics, which may make it challenging for complete beginners
• The platform does not offer certification upon completion of courses

💸Pricing – 365 Data Science offers following subscription plans

• Premium Monthly: $19
• Premium Annual: $15.25/month
• Business: $29/month/user 

Code Institute – Kickstart Your Coding Career

Code Institute is an online learning platform that offers coding courses designed to help individuals kickstart their coding careers. Their courses cover a range of programming languages and technologies, including HTML, CSS, Python, and JavaScript, as well as frameworks like Django and React. 

Code Institute’s courses are delivered through a combination of online modules, interactive coding challenges, and projects, which allow learners to apply their new skills in real-world scenarios. 

The platform also provides learners with access to a community of tutors and mentors who offer personalized support and feedback. Upon completion of their courses, learners receive a certification that is recognized by industry leaders, helping them to land jobs in the tech sector.

Here are the top 2 courses on Code Institute:

• Diploma in Full Stack Software Development (Enrollments: 2960 as of Feb 2023)
• 5 Day Coding Challenge (Enrollments: 2021 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Code Institute offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a range of programming languages and frameworks, providing learners with a strong foundation in web development
• The platform’s interactive coding challenges and real-world projects help learners to apply their new skills in practical settings and build a portfolio of work that can be used to showcase their abilities to potential employers
• Code Institute’s community of tutors and mentors offer personalized support and feedback to learners, helping them to overcome any obstacles they encounter while learning to code
• The platform’s certification is recognized by industry leaders, giving learners a valuable credential that can help them to stand out in a competitive job market

👎Cons

• Code Institute’s courses can be quite expensive, with pricing plans ranging from $1,990 to $5,990, which may be prohibitive for some learners
• The platform’s curriculum is focused on web development, so learners who are interested in other areas of coding may need to look elsewhere for specialized training
• Some learners may prefer a more self-directed approach to learning, which may not be accommodated by Code Institute’s structured curriculum and support system

💸Pricing – Code Institute offers two pricing plans:

• Full Stack Software Development: This plan includes access to the full curriculum, personalized tutor support, and a certification upon completion. The cost is $7,471.57
• Fast Track: This plan is a more condensed version of the Full Stack Software Development plan and is designed for learners who want to complete the program more quickly. It includes access to the same curriculum and support as the Full Stack plan, but learners have six months to complete the program instead of twelve. The cost is $1,990

Udemy – Education unlimited

Udemy is an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses in various fields, including business, technology, design, and more. The platform hosts over 155,000 courses taught by expert instructors and has over 40 million students worldwide. 

Udemy’s courses are designed to be accessible and affordable, with many offerings priced at under $20. Learners can access courses on-demand and learn at their own pace, with lifetime access to course materials.

Here are the top 5 courses on Udemy:

• The Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python (Enrollments: 1,685,791 as of Feb 2023)
• Microsoft Excel – Excel from Beginner to Advanced (Enrollments: 1,204,641 as of Feb 2023)
• Machine Learning A-Z™: Python & R in Data Science (Enrollments: 923,232 as of Feb 2023)
• The Web Developer Bootcamp (Enrollments: 853,556 as of Feb 2023)
• The Complete Digital Marketing Course – 12 Courses in 1 (Enrollments: 735,438 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Udemy offers a huge variety of courses in various fields, with over 155,000 courses available taught by expert instructors
• Courses on Udemy are generally affordable, with many offerings priced at under $20, making it an accessible platform for learners on a budget
• Learners can access courses on-demand and learn at their own pace, with lifetime access to course materials
• Udemy offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for courses, providing learners with some peace of mind when trying out new courses
• The platform allows for interaction with instructors and other learners through Q&A sections and discussion forums

👎Cons

• The quality of courses on Udemy can vary greatly, as courses are created and taught by individual instructors. Some courses may be outdated or poorly organized
• Udemy courses do not offer college credit or recognized certificates, which may be a disadvantage for learners seeking official credentials
• The platform’s pricing can be confusing, with courses priced differently depending on the instructor and sale events

💸Pricing – Udemy offers a wide range of courses in different plans:

• Team: $360/user/year
• Enterprise: Contact sales 

LinkedIn Learning – Achieve Your Personal And Professional Goals

LinkedIn Learning is a professional development and e-learning platform that provides users with access to a vast library of courses and content. The platform offers a variety of topics and subjects, including business, technology, creative skills, and more. 

The user experience is designed to be intuitive and engaging, with high-quality video content, interactive elements, and assessments to measure progress. Users can track their learning progress, set goals, and receive personalized recommendations based on their interests and skill level. 

LinkedIn Learning is designed to help users develop new skills, advance their careers, and stay current with the latest industry trends and best practices. The platform is accessible from any device and can be used at any time, making it a convenient and flexible solution for professional development.

Here are the top 5 courses on LinkedIn Learning:

• Goal Setting: Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) (Enrollments: 3,046 as of Feb 2023)
• Excel Essential Training (Office 365/Microsoft 365) (Enrollments: 5,574 as of Feb 2023)
• Interpersonal Communication (Enrollments: 10,942 as of Feb 2023)
• Project Management Foundations (Enrollments: 3,039 as of Feb 2023)
• Communicating with Confidence (Enrollments: 14,386 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• LinkedIn Learning offers over 16,000 courses on various topics such as business, technology, and creative skills
• Courses are taught by industry experts and professionals with real-world experience
• Completing courses and earning certificates can boost your LinkedIn profile, making it easier to showcase your skills to potential employers
• The platform uses machine learning algorithms to recommend courses that are relevant to your skills and career goals

👎Cons

• Monthly or annual subscription: To access the full range of courses, you need to sign up for a monthly or annual subscription, which can be costly for some users
• Limited free content: While some courses are available for free, the majority of the content is behind a paywall
• No offline viewing: Courses can only be accessed when you have an internet connection

💸Pricing

• Individual monthly subscription: $39.99/month, billed monthly
• Annual subscription: $24.99/month, billed annually (saving $60 per year)

Codecademy – Start A New Career

CodeAcademy is an online learning platform that provides interactive coding lessons and courses to users. The platform is designed to be user-friendly and engaging, with a focus on hands-on learning.

The lessons are structured as a series of coding challenges and exercises that are followed by instant feedback and explanations. Users can track their progress and receive personalized recommendations for further learning.

The platform also offers a supportive community where users can connect with other learners, ask questions, and share their projects. Overall, CodeAcademy aims to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience for anyone looking to develop their coding skills.

Here are the top 5 courses on Codecademy:

• Introduction to UI and UX Design (Enrollments: 42,418 as of Feb 2023)
• Career Path iOS Developer (Enrollments: 10,000 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction to Blockchain and Crypto (Enrollments: 7,443 as of Feb 2023)
• Introduction To Ethical Hacking (Enrollments: 7,346 as of Feb 2023)
• Machine Learning / AI Engineer Career Path (Enrollments: 4,000 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• Interactive Learning: Provides an interactive learning experience, where you get to learn by doing
• Structured Courses: The courses are well-structured, and they follow a logical progression
• Range of Topics: Offers courses on a wide range of programming languages, making it a great platform for beginners and advanced learners alike
• Affordable: Offers a free plan that includes access to a limited number of courses
• Community Support: An active community of learners and instructors who can offer support and guidance as you learn
• Certification: Offers certificates of completion for each course you complete

👎Cons

• While some courses are available for free, the majority of the content is behind a paywall
• Courses can only be accessed when users have an internet connection
• CodeAcademy does not offer official certifications for its courses

💸Pricing

• Free trial: Limited access to courses and features
• Pro subscription: $19.99/ 3 months

Pluralsight – Keep Pace with Technology

Pluralsight is a comprehensive online learning platform that offers courses on a variety of technology and creative topics. The platform is designed to provide users with a seamless learning experience, with a focus on hands-on learning and interactive lessons. 

Users can track their progress, set learning goals, and receive personalized recommendations based on their skills and interests. The platform also offers a large library of courses taught by industry experts and professionals, providing users with access to up-to-date and practical information. 

Pluralsight’s user-friendly interface, interactive lessons, and robust content library make it a popular choice for individuals and organizations looking to develop their technical and creative skills.

Here are the top 5 courses on Pluralsight:

• Python: The Big Picture (Enrollments: 1216 as of Feb 2023)
• JavaScript: Getting Started (Enrollments: 2075 as of Feb 2023)
• Understanding Machine Learning (Enrollments: 2203 as of Feb 2023)
• Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking with Kali Linux (Enrollments: 277 as of Feb 2023)
• Data Science with R (Enrollments: 467 as of Feb 2023)

👍Pros

• A vast library of courses covering technology, creative skills, and business topics
• Pluralsight’s instructors are industry experts and leaders in their respective fields, ensuring high-quality and up-to-date content
• Include hands-on activities, coding exercises, and interactive quizzes to keep learners engaged and help them retain information
• Offers personalized learning paths that allow users to create a customized learning experience

👎Cons

• Pricing plans can be expensive for some users, particularly those who are on a tight budget

💸Pricing

• Standard Plan: $33.25/user/month
• Professional Plan: $48.25/user/month
• Enterprise Plan: $64.91/user/month

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, online learning platforms have revolutionized the way we acquire knowledge and skills. With the growing demand for online education, there are now numerous options available to meet the needs of a wide range of learners.

The platforms we have reviewed each have their unique features, strengths and weaknesses, and it is up to the individual to determine which one is the best fit for their learning goals and preferences.

On the one hand, the convenience and flexibility of online learning are undeniable. With the ability to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, learners can have more control over their education.

In summary, the best online learning platform for you will depend on your personal goals, learning style, and budget. Regardless of which platform you choose, online learning has the potential to broaden your horizons and help you achieve your full potential.