As the world continues to embrace digital learning, online education courses have become an essential tool for individuals looking to learn new skills, enhance their understanding of classroom technologies, and work toward career advancement. Whether you are an educator, parent, administrator, or simply someone interested in expanding your knowledge, there are numerous online courses available that can cater to your specific needs. In this article, we will explore the ten best online education courses that offer tremendous value for their intended audience.
Our Ranking Criteria
We analyzed the top 25 most popular courses across various platforms such as Coursera, Alison, and Udemy to create this list. Our goal was to identify courses that not only provided valuable content but also offered flexibility in terms of schedule and completion time. We used a set of basic and advanced ranking criteria to evaluate each course and determine its position on our list.
Basic Ranking Criteria
We considered several factors during the initial evaluation of the courses:
- Time to complete: All the courses on our list can be completed within six months or less. We understand the value of your time and made sure to select courses that deliver impactful content without unnecessary fluff.
- Prerequisites required: While some courses are designed for specific groups, such as higher education instructors, most are accessible to anyone with an interest in education. This includes parents and students aspiring to become teachers.
- Flexible schedule: We prioritized courses that offer flexibility in terms of start dates and allow you to learn at your own pace. We understand that learners have busy lives and need courses that can accommodate their personal and professional commitments.
- Certificate of completion: While not essential for everyone, we considered courses that provide the option to obtain a certificate or diploma. This credential can be beneficial for those seeking career advancement or looking to showcase their achievements on platforms like LinkedIn.
Advanced Ranking Criteria
We also applied a set of advanced criteria to further evaluate the courses:
- Comprehensive coverage: We assessed whether each course covered a wide range of information related to its topic. A comprehensive curriculum ensures that learners gain a holistic understanding of the subject matter.
- Qualified instructors: Courses taught by experienced educators with appropriate credentials were given preference. We believe that the expertise and teaching abilities of instructors play a crucial role in delivering high-quality education.
- Engaging instructors: We evaluated the instructors based on their ability to captivate and maintain students’ attention throughout the course. Engaging instructors can make the learning experience more enjoyable and effective.
- No specialized software or hardware requirements: Courses that did not require learners to invest in specialized software or hardware were favored. We aimed to select courses that are accessible to a wide range of individuals without imposing additional financial burdens.
- Up-to-date research and thinking: Courses that incorporated the latest research and thinking in their respective fields were given priority. It is crucial for learners to stay updated with the current trends and advancements in their areas of interest.
- Assessment and interaction opportunities: We considered courses that provided exercises, quizzes, or other materials for learners to assess their progress. Additionally, courses that offered opportunities for group discussions or peer-to-peer communications were seen as beneficial for a collaborative learning experience.
Now, let’s dive into the ten best online education courses that made it to our list:
1. Professional Certificate in Online Teaching for Educators Development and Delivery
Intelligent Award: Top Pick
Understanding how to effectively deliver online courses is crucial for educators in today’s digital age. Edx offers a comprehensive Professional Certificate in Online Teaching for Educators Development and Delivery, consisting of three skill-building courses. Taught by Dr. Donata Bonassisa from the University of British Columbia, this certificate program equips educators with the necessary knowledge and tools to engage and educate their online students effectively.
Price: $222.30
Time to complete: 2 months (5-7 hours/week)
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? This course is suitable for educators who have transitioned to online teaching due to the pandemic and wish to enhance their online instructional skills. It is also beneficial for anyone interested in teaching online.
What we like:
- The program consists of three comprehensive courses.
- Covers various aspects of online teaching, including development, planning, implementation, and strategies.
- Taught by an experienced university-level teacher.
2. Improvement Science in Education
Intelligent Award: Best for Administrators
Improvement Science in Education is an upper-level course that explores the discipline of improvement science, which encourages collaboration among teachers, leaders, and researchers to solve specific problems in education. Developed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, this course is taught by Anthony S. Bryk, the president of the Foundation, and Donald J. Peurach, a professor at the University of Michigan. The course provides valuable insights and strategies for educators and leaders seeking to bring about positive change and innovation in their schools and districts.
Price: Free (certificate available for $199)
Time to complete: 8 weeks (2-4 hours/week)
Prerequisites required: Working knowledge of schools and education systems
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? This course is ideal for administrators and educator-leaders looking to drive change and innovation in their educational institutions.
What we like:
- Taught by high-level instructors.
- In-depth exploration of improvement science.
- Option for instructor support with the paid version.
3. Diploma in Teaching Skills for Educators
Intelligent Award: Most Affordable
Alison, a popular online learning platform, offers a cost-effective Diploma in Teaching Skills for Educators. This course allows educators to refresh their training and acquire new skills. With 18 modules covering various aspects of teaching, including classroom communication, educational objectives, and student motivation, this course provides valuable insights and practical strategies. While the course lacks detailed instructor information, its positive ratings and popularity among over 80,000 students make it worth considering.
Price: Free
Time to complete: 10-15 hours
Prerequisites required: Best for certified educators and trainers
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? This course is an excellent option for educators looking to enhance their teaching skills without a financial investment.
What we like:
- CPD accreditation.
- Diploma is available for a fee.
- Multiple lectures and modules covering a wide range of teaching skills.
4. Quality Curriculum & Pedagogy for Educators of the 21st Century
Intelligent Award: Best Short Class
This brief course provides an overview of what constitutes a quality curriculum in the 21st century and emphasizes the importance of student learning in the present era. Taught by Dr. Dheeraj Mehrotra, an award-winning educator from India, the course touches on topics such as teaching creativity, innovation in action, and the impact of student well-being on classroom outcomes. While the course is relatively short, it offers valuable insights into creating a quality curriculum.
Price: $19.99
Time to complete: 1 hour
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? Engaged parents and school administrators interested in understanding how a quality curriculum benefits children would find value in this course.
What we like:
- Minimal time commitment.
- Taught by an award-winning instructor.
- Emphasis on the importance of quality in the classroom.
5. The Teacher and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialization
Intelligent Award: Best Multi-Track Course
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is gaining recognition as an essential aspect of education. This specialization, consisting of five courses, explores SEL programs and their impact on student development. Taught by instructors from the University of Colorado at Boulder and Harvard Graduate School of Education, this program delves into the five core competencies of SEL: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. The specialization culminates in a capstone project that allows learners to apply their learning in real-world scenarios.
Price: $49/month
Time to complete: 6 months (3 hours/week)
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? Educators interested in incorporating SEL qualities into their classroom lessons would benefit greatly from this series.
What we like:
- Instructors at the top of their field.
- A comprehensive exploration of SEL topics.
- Practice quizzes and graded assignments.
- Two capstone project options.
6. Learning to Teach Online
Intelligent Award: Best Online Platform
Learning to Teach Online is a course offered by the University of New South Wales in Australia. This course focuses on helping educators structure their courses for online delivery effectively. Taught by Dr. Simon McIntyre, an associate professor, and Dr. Negin Mirriahi, a lecturer in the school of education, the course equips educators with practical strategies to leverage technology for the benefit of their students. With the increasing prevalence of online education, this course provides valuable insights for teachers navigating the challenges of teaching in a digital environment.
Price: Free ($49 with certificate)
Time to complete: 18 hours
Prerequisites required: None; best for practicing teachers
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? Educators who find themselves conducting classes online, whether due to the pandemic or other circumstances, can greatly benefit from this course.
What we like:
- Based on an award-winning educational resource.
- Flexible deadlines.
- Practical strategies for online teaching.
7. Assessment in Higher Education – Professional Development for Teachers
Intelligent Award: Best Advanced Course
Assessment plays a crucial role in higher education. This course focuses on designing assessments aligned with course objectives, analyzing assessment results, and improving future assessments. Developed by professors and advisors at Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the course covers various topics, including the role of assessment, feedback and grading design, and assessment analysis and evaluation. It offers a comprehensive understanding of assessment practices for higher education teachers.
Price: Free ($59 with certificate)
Time to complete: 18 hours
Prerequisites required: Higher education teacher
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? This course is targeted at college and university teachers seeking to enhance their assessment skills.
What we like:
- Financial aid is available.
- Flexible deadlines.
- Opportunity to create an assessment plan.
- Comprehensive coverage of assessment strategies.
8. Google Classroom for Teachers
Intelligent Award: Shortest Course
Google Classroom became a widely used resource for teachers during the pandemic, enabling them to connect with students, manage classes, and deliver assignments effectively. This short course on SkillShare, taught by Alex Nussbaumer, a technical instructor for Google Classroom, helps teachers navigate the platform and maximize its features. With a 7-day free trial, educators can explore this course without any financial commitment.
Price: $8.25/month (billed annually), $19/month (billed monthly), 7-day free trial available
Time to complete: 29 minutes
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: No
Who should take this course? Teachers who are transitioning to or already using Google Classroom as an online teaching platform can benefit from this course.
What we like:
- Free 7-day trial.
- Offline learning capabilities.
- Supportive community.
9. Be a Winner – Becoming a Winning Educator at a Demanding School
Intelligent Award: Best for New Teachers
This course serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for teachers who need a reminder of their passion for education. Led by Nikki and Wesley Ace, experienced teachers and founders of the “Be a Winner” movement, this course emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and provides strategies for overcoming challenges in the classroom. It is particularly beneficial for new teachers seeking guidance and support in their educational journey.
Price: $94.99
Time to complete: 2 hours
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? This course is suitable for new teachers struggling to find their place in the academic world and educators who need a boost in their motivation and resilience.
What we like:
- Lifetime access to the course.
- Enthusiastic and informed instructors.
- Emphasis on mindset and strategies for success.
10. The Art of Storytelling (Early Childhood Educators)
Intelligent Award: Best for Parents
Storytelling is a powerful tool for early childhood education, enhancing listening, literacy, and creative skills. This course, taught by Veenu Gupta, an experienced early childhood educator from India and the United States, provides techniques and insights into engaging storytelling. While the primary audience is early childhood and primary educators, parents and caregivers can also benefit from this course to improve their storytelling abilities and strengthen their relationships with their children.
Price: $29.99
Time to complete: 1 hour
Prerequisites required: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Includes verified certificate of participation: Yes
Who should take this course? Early childhood and primary educators, parents, caregivers, and students studying early childhood education can all benefit from this course.
What we like:
- Lifetime access to the course.
- Practical techniques for engaging storytelling.
- Includes article downloads.
Online Course Comparison Chart
To help you make an informed decision, we have created a comparison chart summarizing the key details of each course:
| Course Name | Price | Time to Complete | Prerequisites | Flexible Schedule | Certificate of Participation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Certificate in Online Teaching for Educators | $222.30 | 2 months | None | Yes | Yes |
| Improvement Science in Education | Free | 8 weeks | None | Yes | Yes |
| Diploma in Teaching Skills for Educators | Free | 10-15 hours | Certified educators and trainers | Yes | Yes |
| Quality Curriculum & Pedagogy for Educators of the 21st Century | $19.99 | 1 hour | None | Yes | Yes |
| The Teacher and Social and Emotional Learning Specialization | $49/month | 6 months | None | Yes | Yes |
| Learning to Teach Online | Free | 18 hours | None | Yes | Yes |
| Assessment in Higher Education | Free | 18 hours | Higher education teacher | Yes | Yes |
| Google Classroom for Teachers | $8.25/month | 29 minutes | None | Yes | No |
| Be a Winner – Becoming a Winning Educator at a Demanding School | $94.99 | 2 hours | None | Yes | Yes |
| The Art of Storytelling (Early Childhood Educators) | $29.99 | 1 hour | None | Yes | Yes |
Tips for Succeeding in an Online Education Course
Now that you have an overview of the top online education courses, here are some tips to help you succeed in your chosen course:
- Consider the cost: Online education courses vary in price. Some are free, while others may require a financial investment. Take into account your budget and the value you expect to gain from the course.
- Ensure you have the necessary technology: Most courses require a computer with a reliable internet connection. Make sure your system meets the requirements and consider installing helpful tools such as the Video Speed Controller app for Chrome.
- Use additional study resources: Explore websites like Edutopia, Teacher.org, and Pinterest for additional resources, lesson plans, and innovative teaching strategies to complement your online course.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Education Courses
Q: What jobs can you get after completing an online education course?
A: Completing an online education course can enhance your teaching skills and make you more competitive in the job market. While specific job opportunities may vary, you could pursue roles such as a teacher’s assistant, tutor, or educational consultant.
Q: Are there free online education courses?
A: Yes, many online education platforms offer free courses. However, keep in mind that free courses often do not provide certificates of completion or extensive instructor interaction.
Q: How long is the average online education course?
A: The duration of online education courses varies. Some courses can be completed in a few hours, while others span several months. Consider your time availability and commitment level when choosing a course.
Q: Can I earn a teaching degree online?
A: Yes, several colleges and universities offer online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in education. However, in-person student teaching experiences may still be required. Consult with the admissions counselors of your chosen institution to learn more about their online education programs.
Q: What are the best online courses for teachers?
A: The best online courses for teachers depend on your specific needs and interests. Our list highlights a variety of courses covering topics such as online teaching, curriculum development, assessment, and social-emotional learning. Consider your goals and choose a course aligned with your professional development needs.
With these ten exceptional online education courses, you can take the next step in your professional growth and acquire new skills to excel in the field of education. Whether you are an educator, administrator, or parent, these courses offer valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your teaching abilities and make a positive impact on learners. Choose the course that aligns with your goals and embark on a transformative learning journey today.