Self-learning has become an increasingly popular way to acquire new knowledge and skills, especially with the rise of the internet and the availability of free online resources. For many individuals, self-learning provides a convenient, flexible and cost-effective solution to pursuing their passions and achieving their goals.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best free online self-learning resources available for teens and adults, covering topics ranging from academic subjects to hobbies and personal development. Whether you're a student, working professional, or simply looking to pick up a new skill, this guide has something for everyone.
Academic Subjects
There are numerous free online resources available for those looking to further their education in academic subjects such as mathematics, science, history, and more. Here are some of the best options:
- Khan Academy: A non-profit organization dedicated to providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Khan Academy offers a wide range of subjects, from math and science to history and economics.
- Coursera: A massive open online course (MOOC) provider that partners with top universities and organizations to offer online courses in a variety of subjects.
- edX: A non-profit online learning destination founded by Harvard University and MIT in 2012. edX offers a wide range of high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world.
Hobbies and Personal Development
In addition to academic subjects, there are numerous free online resources available for individuals looking to pick up a new hobby or improve their personal development. Here are some of the best options:
- Udemy: A popular online learning platform that offers over 130,000 video courses in a wide range of subjects, including music, photography, and personal development.
- Codecademy: A comprehensive learning platform that offers interactive coding lessons in a variety of programming languages.
- Skillshare: A community-driven learning platform that offers a wide range of classes in creative skills, such as design, photography, and writing.
Classroom Exercise: "Building Bridges"
Objective: To promote teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills.
Materials needed:
- 20 index cards
- 20 pieces of string or yarn, each measuring approximately 60 cm
- Tape or glue
Instructions:
- Divide the class into groups of 4-5 students each.
- Give each group a set of 20 index cards and 20 pieces of string.
- Explain the task: Each group must use the index cards and string to build the tallest freestanding bridge possible within a given time limit (e.g. 20 minutes). The bridge must be strong enough to support a small object, such as a pen, placed in the middle.
- Once the time is up, have each group present their bridge and demonstrate its stability by placing a small object in the center.
- After all groups have presented, discuss the different approaches and strategies used by each group and how effective they were in meeting the objective.
- Conclude by emphasizing the importance of teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in everyday life.
Variation: To increase the level of difficulty, you can impose additional constraints such as limiting the number of index cards and string used, or requiring the bridge to span a certain distance.
Note: The objective of this exercise is not to build the tallest bridge possible, but to promote teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, free online self-learning offers a convenient, flexible, and cost-effective solution for individuals looking to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. With the wide range of academic subjects, hobbies, and personal development resources available, there has never been a better time to start self-learning. So why wait? Start exploring the world of free online self-learning today!
