FutureLearn is an e-learning platform run by the Open University, offering a selection of free courses. Including various courses designed for professionals across multiple fields, such as teaching. In contrast to other e-learning providers, that requires users to pay in order to take part in courses. FutureLearn isn’t 100% free; some courses charge a fixed fee or require a subscription to access. But it isn’t necessary to pay anything, though. But paying allows users to have extra privileges on courses. Namely, printing off a course completion certificate and accessing the course after it has ended.
With FutureLearn, there are three ways to take courses.The first option is free courses available for a limited time. Even though the course itself is free. Only paying users can access specific content, such as quizzes, while other features remain free. The second option is to pay for a course upgrade or buy an unlimited subscription, which is cheaper for long-term use and unlocks all course content. Lastly, there is a small selection of university degree courses that require payment.
Selection-wise, I like the variety of courses offered by different providers, ranging from the Open University to Humanists UK. Although the selection is large, many are science and business courses, while other subjects, such as law and creative media, have fewer options.
I also like that when you are looking around for courses; it provides a comprehensive guide on what each course offers. The guide details information such as the amount of time that you need to dedicate to finishing the course and its requirements. When searching through the courses, I didn’t like that you cannot hide courses you’ve already completed. I feel it is unnecessary to search through a comprehensive list of courses when looking for a new one.
When accessing courses, you are presented with a page containing a section of content. Each course differs in delivery media; for example, one may use video, text, and images, while another focuses on articles. After the content, you are encouraged to comment on your opinion on a related question or join discussions with others.
Overall, I recommend FutureLearn to anyone interested in learning. Many free courses are available on a wide range of topics, and you can also study full degrees online.