Online learning has become an increasingly popular way for students to supplement traditional education, gain new skills, and even take entire courses and degree programs. With a plethora of online learning platforms now available, it can be tricky for students to determine which ones best suit their needs.

When selecting an online learning platform, students should consider factors like the quality of instruction, available courses and subjects, flexibility of learning, affordability, and student support services. Depending on a student’s learning goals and needs, certain platforms may be more beneficial than others.

Here are 5 of the best online learning platforms for students looking to maximize their education and build critical skills online:

Coursera

Coursera stands out for its breadth and depth of high-quality online courses. Courses are taught by instructors from over 200 leading global universities and companies including Yale, Stanford, Google, and IBM. Topics span everything from programming and data science to history, philosophy, business, and more.

Many Coursera courses provide the option to earn a shareable course certificate upon completion. Their Specializations and Professional Certificates go further, allowing students to master in-demand skills and careers. Given its rigor and career-focused offerings, Coursera is ideal for college students and adult learners alike.

Easyerra

For students provide educational blog, and free study material, Easyerra is a top choice. The platform offers many categories educational content.

edX

edX aims to make education accessible by offering free online courses from 140 prestigious institutions including MIT, Harvard, Berkeley, and Dartmouth. Along with free courses, they offer affordable options to take courses for official credit and obtain grades and certificates.

edX courses allow students to develop skills in high demand fields like computer science, engineering, data science, programming and business. The platform’s academic rigor suits driven students looking to supplement their learning.

Khan Academy

For K-12 or college students needing help on academic subjects, Khan Academy is a top free resource. Through brief video lessons and practice exercises, they cover math, science, economics, grammar, history, SAT prep, and much more.

Khan Academy also offers customized learning plans, insights for instructors, and a personalized online classroom where students can learn at their own pace. The structured curriculum is ideal for students seeking to strengthen core academic skills.

Skillshare

Skillshare provides a unique approach to online learning with courses focused on fostering creativity. Teachers are working professionals and experts who teach through online video lessons. Course topics help students expand skills in areas like illustration, photography, design, writing, technology, and entrepreneurship.

The platform’s affordable membership model provides students with unlimited access to all course content. For artistic students who want to build a portfolio or simply explore their interests, Skillshare is a engaging choice.

Key Features to Look For

When evaluating online learning platforms, students should look for some key features and benefits:

• Expert instruction – courses should be taught by knowledgeable teachers, faculty, and industry professionals
• Valuable course content – courses offer useful skills and education, not just basic tutorials
• Interactivity – options to ask questions, take quizzes, complete projects and get feedback
• Credibility – courses and certificates come from respected institutions
• Flexibility – on demand courses that fit student schedules
• Affordability – free, low cost, or subscription options
• Student support – mentors, study groups, and peer-to-peer learning

By selecting online learning platforms strategically based on their academic goals and learning preferences, students can access high-quality education and specialized skills training. With so many stellar options now available, every motivated student can find ways to expand their knowledge online.