- 1. Coursera
- 2. edX
- 3. Udacity
- 4. Lynda.com
- 5. Skillshare
- 6. Treehouse
- 7. Pluralsight
- 8. Codecademy
- 9. Khan Academy
- 10. Udemy
- 11 Alison
- Conclusion:
Choosing the right I.T. training platform can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, how do you know which one is the best for you? In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most popular free and paid platforms available today. We will also highlight some of the pros and cons of each platform to help you decide which one is right for you. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced IT professional, read on to find out more about the top training platforms!
1. Coursera
Founded in 2012, Coursera is one of the largest online I.T. training platforms, with over 3,000 courses from top universities and companies worldwide. The company offers a wide range of courses in subjects like computer science, data science, business, and more, and has partnered with leading institutions like Stanford University, Google, and IBM. In addition to its online offerings, Coursera also provides an enterprise version of its platform for businesses and organizations. The company has raised over $440 million from investors including Kleiner Perkins and Sequoia Capital and is headquartered in Mountain View, CA.
Pros of Coursera
Large selection of high-quality courses from well-known universities and companies.
Courses are self-paced, so you can complete them at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Coursera offers a range of specialization tracks that allow you to focus on a specific area of interest, such as data science or machine learning.
The enterprise version of the platform provides businesses and organizations with access to custom content and features.
Courses are often less expensive than comparable courses offered by other online I.T. training platforms.
Cons of Coursera
Some courses require a subscription in order to access all of the material.
not all courses are available for offline viewing.
Some courses have a set start and end date, so you need to complete them within a certain time frame.
2. edX
Founded in 2012, edX is a massive open online course (MOOC) platform that counts Harvard University and MIT among its founding members. Unlike other platforms like Coursera, edX focuses on formal education with university-level courses in subjects like computer science, engineering, management science, and more. Many of the courses on edX are self-paced, but there are also some that follow a more traditional semester schedule. The company has raised over $151 million from investors such as Bill Gates and Andreessen Horowitz and is headquartered in Cambridge, MA.
Pros of eDX
Offers a large selection of high-quality courses from leading universities and schools around the world, including Harvard, MIT, UC Berkeley, and others.
Courses are often free or available at a reduced rate for students with financial needs.
Many courses have no set start or end date, making it easy to complete them at your own pace.
Some courses offer certificates of completion that can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile.
The platform has a clean and user-friendly interface.
Cons of eDX
Not all courses are available for offline viewing.
Some courses require a subscription in order to access all of the material.
Some courses have a set start and end date, so you need to complete them within a certain time frame.
Not all courses are as in-depth or comprehensive as comparable courses on other platforms, which may be better suited for more advanced learners.
3. Udacity
Founded in 2009, Udacity is an online I.T. training platform with a focus on computer science and programming courses. The company was started by two co-founders who are also the former directors of Google’s self-driving car program. In addition to its online courses, Udacity also offers “nanodegrees,” which are specialized programs that help students prepare for specific jobs in the tech industry. The company has raised over $170 million from investors including Andreessen Horowitz and Google Ventures and is headquartered in Mountain View, CA.
Pros of Udacity
Offers a wide selection of courses that cover a variety of subjects related to computer science and programming, including data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and more.
Courses are available for free or at a reduced rate for students with financial needs.
Many courses offer certificates of completion that can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile.
The platform has a clean and user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate and complete courses.
Courses are self-paced, so you can complete them at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Cons of Udacity
Some courses require a subscription in order to access all of the material.
Not all courses are available for offline viewing.
Some courses have a set start and end date, so you need to complete them within a certain time frame.
The platform does not offer as many high-quality courses as some of its competitors, which may be better suited for more advanced learners.
The focus on tech-related subjects might make Udacity less appealing to students who are interested in other areas of study.
4. Lynda.com
Founded in 1995, Lynda.com is an online I.T. training platform that offers video-based courses on a wide range of subjects both technical and non-technical like 3D and animation, audio/music production, business, design, development, and marketing, and more. The company was acquired by LinkedIn in 2015 for $1.5 billion, and now offers over 5,000 courses on its platform. Courses cover topics like photography, music production, business management, graphic design, software development, and much more. In addition to individual subscriptions for learners, Lynda.com also provides training solutions for businesses. The company is headquartered in Carpinteria, CA.
Pros of Lynda.com
Wide range of courses on both technical and non-technical subjects
Offers training solutions for businesses
Courses are video-based
Cons of Lynda.com
Some courses are only available to premium members
The platform can be difficult to navigate at times
Not all courses are up to date or relevant
Despite these drawbacks, Lynda.com is still one of the leading online I.T. training platforms available today and provides a great resource for those looking to learn new skills or brush up on existing ones. Whether you're interested in business management, graphic design, software
5. Skillshare
Founded in 2010, Skillshare is an online I.T. training platform that offers courses on a wide range of creative and business-related subjects. The company differentiates itself from other platforms by offering its courses in a more “learn-by-doing” style, with short videos and hands-on projects for students. In addition to its online platform, Skillshare also provides offline courses at learning centers in major cities like New York and Chicago. The company has raised over $32 million from investors including Sequoia Capital, NEA, and the Chernin Group, and is headquartered in New York, NY.
Pros of Skillshare
The company differentiates itself from other platforms by offering its courses in a more “learn-by-doing” style, with short videos and hands-on projects for students.
Skillshare also provides offline courses at learning centers in major cities like New York and Chicago.
The company has raised over $32 million from investors including major VC firms like Sequoia Capital, NEA, and the Chernin Group.
As a result, Skillshare has been able to build a strong platform with an engaged user base, making it one of the most popular online I.T. training platforms available today.
Overall, if you are interested in learning new skills or advancing your career, Skillshare is a great choice for online training and development.
Cons of Skillshare
Some of the courses offered on Skillshare are not as comprehensive as those offered by other online I.T. training platforms.
The platform can be overwhelming for new users, with a large number of courses and instructors to choose from.
Skillshare is not as well known as some of the other online I.T. training platforms, which may make it difficult to find the right course for your needs.
Overall, Skillshare is a great choice for online training and development, but it may not be the best platform for everyone.
6. Treehouse
Founded in 2011, Treehouse is an online I.T. training platform that offers courses on web design, web development, and mobile development. The company has a strong focus on helping students learn by doing, with projects, quizzes, and code challenges built into its courses. Treehouse also offers a “track” feature that allows students to focus their learning on specific skill sets or technologies. The company has raised over $13 million from investors such as Kaplan Ventures and Tiger Global Management and is headquartered in Orlando, FL.
Pros of Treehouse
Comprehensive curriculum. Treehouse has one of the most extensive curriculums of any online I.T. training platform, offering courses on virtually every aspect of web and mobile development.
Focus on practical skills and hands-on learning. Treehouse's approach to teaching places a strong emphasis on students gaining practical experience through hands-on projects, quizzes, and code challenges.
Flexible learning options. Treehouse offers many different ways for students to learn, including a flexible pacing option that allows them to set the pace of their learning based on their own schedule and availability.
Dedicated support network. Treehouse provides students with a large and active community of other students, instructors, and industry experts who are available to offer support and guidance.
If you're looking for a comprehensive online I.T. training platform that offers courses in web design, web development, and mobile development, then Treehouse is an excellent option. Their curriculum is one of the most extensive out there, and their focus on practical skills and hands-on learning makes them a great choice for those who want to gain experience in the field. Additionally, their flexible learning options and dedicated support network make Treehouse a great option for those who want to learn at their own pace.
Cons of Treehouse
High cost of membership. While Treehouse does offer some free resources, its paid membership plans can be quite expensive compared to other online I.T. training platforms. This may be a deterrent for budget-conscious learners who are looking for a more affordable option.
Limited course offerings in certain areas. Though Treehouse has a wide range of courses available, it does not currently offer any courses on certain specialized topics, such as game development or design automation.
Difficulties with course navigation. Some users have reported that the Treehouse interface can be confusing and difficult to navigate, which can make it more challenging to find specific content or complete certain tasks.
Overall, while Treehouse does have some major advantages, such as its comprehensive curriculum and focus on practical skills, it does have some drawbacks as well. If you're looking for an affordable and accessible online I.T. training platform, then you may want to consider other options before deciding whether or not to sign up with Treehouse.
7. Pluralsight
Founded in 2004, Pluralsight is an online I.T. training platform that offers courses on software development. The company differentiates itself from other platforms by offering a “learning path” feature that allows students to focus their learning on specific skillsets or technologies. Courses are offered in multiple formats, including video-based tutorials, interactive labs, and assessments. Pluralsight also provides training solutions for businesses. The company has raised over $135 million from investors such as Insight Venture Partners, Franklin Templeton Investments, and GV (formerly Google Ventures), and is headquartered in Farmington, UT.
Pros of Pluralsight
Learning paths allow students to focus their learning. Pluralsight's "learning path" feature is a unique and helpful addition that allows students to focus their learning on specific skillsets or technologies. This can be a great way to ensure that you're getting the most out of your Pluralsight membership.
Multiple course formats available. Pluralsight offers courses in multiple formats, including video-based tutorials, interactive labs, and assessments. This allows students to learn in the way that best suits their needs and preferences.
Authoritative source for business training solutions. Pluralsight is a well-respected and authoritative source for business training solutions. If you're looking for a comprehensive and reliable online I.T. training platform, then Pluralsight is an excellent option.
Comprehensive range of courses available. Pluralsight offers a wide range of courses on software development, making it a great choice for those who want to gain or improve their skills in this area.
Excellent customer support and community resources. Pluralsight has an excellent customer support and a friendly online community, which can be very helpful if you have questions or run into any issues while using the platform.
Affordable membership fees. While some other online I.T. training platforms charge high membership fees, Pluralsight offers affordable plans that make it more accessible to a wider range of students.
There are many other online I.T. training platforms available, but Pluralsight stands out as one of the most comprehensive and reliable options. If you're looking for an authoritative source for business training solutions or want to focus your learning on software development, then Pluralsight may be the right choice for you.
Cons of Pluralsight
Limited course offerings in certain areas. While Pluralsight offers a wide range of courses on software development, it does not currently offer any courses on other specialized topics, such as game development or design automation.
Confusing navigation and layout. Some users have reported that the layout and navigation are confusing, which can make it difficult to find the courses you're looking for.
The video quality is not always great. While the video quality is generally good, some users have reported that it can be poor in certain courses.
Some courses are outdated. Pluralsight offers a wide range of courses, but some of them are outdated and no longer relevant. This can be frustrating for users who are looking for up-to-date information.
Limited customer support options. While Pluralsight has excellent customer support, it is only available during business hours and does not offer 24/7 assistance.
Some community members are hostile. While the Pluralsight community is generally friendly and helpful, there have been reports of hostility from some members. This can make it difficult to get the help you need.
While Pluralsight has many great features, it also has some drawbacks that should be considered before signing up for a membership. If you're looking for an online I.T. training platform with a wide range of course offerings, then Pluralsight may be a good choice for you. But if you need specialized courses in certain areas or prefer round-the-clock customer support, then you might want to look elsewhere. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
8. Codecademy
Founded in 2011, Codecademy is an online I.T. training platform that offers courses on coding and software development. The company differentiates itself from other platforms by focusing specifically on teaching programming languages such as Python, Ruby, HTML/CSS, Javascript, and more. In addition to its online platform, Codecademy also provides offline workshops in major cities worldwide. The company has raised over $48 million from investors such as Union Square Ventures, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and Richard Branson, and is headquartered in New York, NY.
Pros of Codecademy
Great platform for beginners. Codecademy's intuitive interface makes it easy for users to learn the basics of programming, even if they have no prior experience in coding.
Extensive course offerings. With courses on a wide variety of programming languages and topics, Codecademy has something to offer both new and experienced developers alike.
Free to use. One of the biggest advantages of Codecademy is that it's free to use, making it an affordable option for anyone looking to learn to code.
Offline workshops available. In addition to its online platform, Codecademy also provides offline workshops in major cities worldwide, which can be a great way to learn in-person from experienced developers and interact with other students.
Strong community support. Codecademy has a large and active community of programmers who are always willing to offer advice, feedback, and encouragement to others. This can be a great resource for new coders looking to get started or improve their skills.
Cons of Codecademy
Limited course offerings. While Codecademy offers a wide variety of courses, it doesn't offer as many advanced courses as some other platforms. This can be a problem for experienced developers who are looking to learn more complex concepts and languages.
No live instruction. One of the downsides of Codecademy is that it doesn't offer live instruction from experienced developers. This can make it difficult to get help with specific problems or receive feedback in real-time.
Not all courses are free. While most of Codecademy's courses are free, there are a few that require a paid subscription. This can be a problem for users who are on a tight budget or who only want to use free resources.
Limited availability of offline workshops. While Codecademy offers a number of in-person workshops and meetups, these are not available in all major cities around the world. This can be a problem for users who don't live near one of these locations.
Overall, Codecademy is a great platform for anyone interested in learning to code. The company offers a wide variety of courses, is free to use, and has strong community support. However, it does have some limitations, such as its lack of live instruction and advanced courses.
If you're thinking about learning to code, then Codecademy is definitely worth checking out. With its easy-to-use interface and wide range of course offerings, it's a great platform for beginners and experienced developers alike. So why not give it a try today?
9. Khan Academy
Founded in 2006, Khan Academy is a non-profit online I.T. training platform that offers courses on a wide range of subjects, both technical and non-technical. The company differentiates itself from other platforms by offering its courses for free to anyone in the world with an internet connection. Khan Academy also provides training solutions for businesses and schools. The company is headquartered in Mountain View, CA.
Pros of Khan Academy
Unlimited access to all content.
Courses are available on a wide range of subjects, both technical and non-technical.
The courses are free, making them accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
Khan Academy provides training solutions for businesses as well as schools, so they can meet a variety of learning needs.
The company is well-established, having been founded in 2006, so you can be confident that it will be around for the long haul.
Khan Academy offers a variety of features to support learners, including video lectures, practice exercises, and interactive content.
Overall, there are many pros to using Khan Academy as your learning platform of choice. The courses are free, the company is well-established, and the platform offers a variety of features to support learners.
Cons of Khan Academy
Limited course offerings on certain topics.
The platform can be a bit overwhelming at times, with so many features and options to choose from.
Some learners may find it difficult to stick with the online learning format, especially if they prefer a more traditional classroom setting.
Due to its popularity, Khan Academy can sometimes be slow and unreliable; this may be a source of frustration for some users.
The company does not offer any certifications or degrees, which may be a deal-breaker for some learners who are looking to advance their careers with formal credentials.
Another potential downside of Khan Academy is that it relies heavily on video lectures, which can be a for some learners.
While there are some potential downsides to using Khan Academy for your I.T. training needs, overall it is a solid choice that can offer many benefits to both individuals and businesses alike. If you are looking for unlimited access to high-quality courses on a wide range of topics, then Khan Academy may be the right platform for you.
10. Udemy
Founded in 2010, Udemy is an online I.T. training platform that offers courses on a wide range of subjects, both technical and non-technical. The company differentiates itself from other platforms by offering a marketplace for courses, where instructors can create and sell their courses to students. Udemy also provides training solutions for businesses. The company has raised over $173 million from investors such as Insight Venture Partners, Stripes Group, and Norwest Venture Partners, and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.
Pros of Udemy
The Udemy platform offers thousands of high-quality courses on a wide range of subjects, both technical and non-technical.
Instructors can create and sell their own courses on the Udemy marketplace, allowing them to monetize their skills and expertise.
For businesses, Udemy offers training solutions that can be customized to meet the specific needs of the organization.
The company has raised over $173 million from investors, so you can be confident that it is well-funded and here to stay.
Udemy offers a variety of features to support learners, including video lectures, practice exercises, and interactive content.
Overall, there are many pros to using Udemy as your learning platform of choice. The marketplace offers a wide variety of courses, the company is well-funded, and the platform provides a variety of features to support learners.
Cons of Udemy
There are some potential downsides to consider as well.
First, not all courses on Udemy are created equal, so it is important to do some research and read reviews before choosing a course.
Second, Udemy does not offer any certifications or degrees, which can be a deal-breaker for some learners who are looking to advance their careers with formal credentials.
Third, the platform can sometimes be buggy or unstable, which can be frustrating for users.
Fourth, the Udemy mobile app is not as user-friendly as the desktop version, so learners may have a better experience if they stick to using the website.
Fifth, some users have complained about customer service issues, such as difficulty getting refunds or problems with course delivery.
While there are some potential downsides to using Udemy, overall it is a solid choice for I.T. learners who are looking for an all-in-one learning platform with thousands of courses and features. Just be sure to do your research before choosing a course or signing up for a subscription.
One Bonus suggestion:
11 Alison
Founded in 2007, Alison is one of the oldest and largest online I.T. training platforms, with over 2,000 courses in a wide range of subjects. The company offers both free and premium courses, with the latter giving you access to additional features like course certificates and personal coaching. Alison has partnered with several organizations to expand the reach of its courses, and the company is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.
Pros of Alison
There are several advantages to using Alison for your I.T. training needs. First, the platform has a large selection of high-quality courses on a wide range of topics, so you are sure to find something that meets your learning goals. Second, Alison offers both free and premium courses, so you can choose the option that best fits your budget. Third, the company has partnered with several organizations to expand the reach of its courses, so you can be confident that you are getting a well-rounded education. Finally, Alison is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, so you can be sure that it is a reputable and reliable platform.
Cons of Alison
While Alison does have many benefits, there are also some potential downsides to consider. For example, the platform can sometimes be buggy or unstable, which can be frustrating for users. In addition, not all courses on Alison are created equally, so it is important to do your research before choosing a course. Finally, the company does not offer any certifications or degrees, which can be a deal-breaker for some learners who are looking to advance their careers with formal credentials.
Overall, Alison is a good choice for those who are looking for a reputable and reliable online I.T. training platform with a large selection of courses.
Conclusion:
These are the top I.T. training platforms that offer courses on coding and software development. These platforms offer a variety of features, such as learn-by-doing style courses, tracks for focusing learning, video-based tutorials, and more. These platforms also differ in their pricing models, with some offering free courses and others charging for courses or subscriptions. Whether you are looking for technical training for yourself or your business, these I.T. training platforms offer a range of options to meet your needs.
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