The Whitsdom Press

Tag: online learning

  • Free Online Classes That Can Boost Our Tech Skills!

    Hey, y’all! I have to share some exciting news that could change things for a lot of us.

    Like many of you, I’m a Black woman who’s been out of the traditional school setting for a while. Honestly, I thought getting a good job in tech was just a dream. It seemed like something only people who could afford college could do. But I was wrong! I did some digging. I found a whole world of free online classes. These classes teach you the exact skills companies are looking for right now.

    This is huge for our community. You might be seeking a raise. Maybe you’re trying to find a new career. Perhaps you just want to feel more confident using computers. These resources are totally free. They are built for people like us who are ready to learn.

    Below is a simple guide to these amazing websites. Here are the easiest ways I found to actually stick with the classes. Let’s level up together!

    🔓 My Personal List: Free Websites to Learn Tech Skills

    I put this into a table so it’s super easy to see what each site focuses on.

    Learning WebsiteWhat You’ll Learn (Topics)What This Site is Best For
    Google SkillsAI (Smart Tech), Data Analytics, Security, and how to use Google’s powerful online tools (Google Cloud).Getting great-looking certifications for jobs in Cloud and AI.
    freeCodeCampBuilding websites (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), coding basics, and database work (SQL).People who want to be Web Developers—you learn by building projects!
    edXComputer Science, Python coding, AI, and Data Science from big universities like Harvard.Taking college-level classes for free (you can watch the lessons for free).
    Harvard OnlineBasic Computer Science (CS50), learning to code in Python, and web programming.Getting a strong, respected foundation in tech.
    UdacityShort, starting classes in Python, SQL, Data Analysis, and Cloud basics.Getting practical skills that companies actually hire for, fast.
    HubSpot AcademyDigital Marketing, Social Media, advertising online, and sales skills.Learning how to market yourself or products online—a skill every business needs.
    DatabricksWorking with Big Data, data engineering, and machine learning.If you are interested in working with large amounts of information.
    HuggingFaceNewest AI like language models (the tech behind ChatGPT) and smart agents.Learning the future of technology (advanced AI).
    Khan AcademyBasic Computer Coding, math, and science—everything you need to brush up on.Starting with a strong foundation if you need to catch up on basics.
    Elements of AIThe very basics of AI—what it is and how it works.A super simple introduction to smart technology.
    FutureLearnTech, Data Analytics, Marketing, and Cyber Security from schools around the world.Finding courses that are focused on getting a better job.
    Class CentralIt’s a search engine that finds and puts together all the free classes from these sites.Finding the best free course on anything you want to learn.
    Saylor AcademyCollege-level courses in Tech, Business, and Math.Getting structured education that feels like a college class.
    LinkedIn LearningHow to write a great resume, network, and use popular software.Learning people and career skills needed for any professional job.
    AlisonFree Certificates in IT, Business, and Health.Getting free certificates to show employers what you know.
    UdemySimple intro lessons on coding, SQL, and specific software.Finding free short courses on specific technical tools.

    💡 How I Plan to Actually Finish These Classes (and how you can too!)

    When you haven’t been in school for a while, managing your own study time can be the hardest part. Here are the simple tips I’m using to stay on track:

    1. Simple Planning and Time Management

    • Schedule a Study Date: Don’t just hope you find time. Pick a specific time (like Tuesday at 8 PM) and write it on your calendar. Treat this study time like a meeting you absolutely can’t cancel.
    • Break It Up: If a lesson is two hours long, do it in four 30-minute chunks instead. Small goals are easier to hit than big ones.
    • Use a Timer: I set my phone timer for 25 minutes of work, then take a 5-minute break. It helps me focus without getting burned out.

    2. Set Up Your Study Space

    • Use the Same Spot: Try to study in the same quiet place every time. This could be your kitchen table or a corner of the couch. You could even choose a local coffee shop. When your brain recognizes the spot, it gets ready to learn.
    • Have Everything Ready: Before you sit down, make sure your computer, notebook, and a drink are right there. You lose focus if you have to get up to find a pen.
    • Phone on Silent!: This is the most important one. Put your phone in another room or turn it completely off for your study session. Distractions kill learning.

    3. My Simple Secret for Learning Tough Stuff

    • Ask “Why?”: Every time you learn a new rule, ask yourself: Why is that rule there? What is the point of it? Understanding the why is the difference between memorizing and truly understanding.
    • Write It Down: Don’t just watch the videos. Pause them and write the main ideas or steps down in a notebook in your own handwriting. This makes your brain work harder and remember the information better.
    • You Have to Do It: For coding or tech, you can’t just watch the instructor. If they show a line of code, you must type it out yourself and make it work. Then, try changing something small just to see what happens. This is how the skills actually stick!

    The power to change your life and your community through technology is in your hands. These free tools give you the education; your dedication is the key. Start simple, be consistent, and be proud of every single step you take!

    Ready to start? Choose one course from the table above and schedule your first hour of study time right now!

  • Explore Top Free Courses on Coursera Today

    Y’all know I am all about self-improvement and development. I wanted to give my readers some information about Coursera and the FREE courses they offer that could help you advance in your current field or gain foundational knowledge towards a new skill.

    Free courses help you learn new skills and explore interesting topics without any financial commitment. They provide access to many resources, allowing you to study at your own pace and encouraging self-improvement. Whether you want to advance your career, change jobs, or just learn something new, free courses give you valuable knowledge and experience. Their flexibility makes it easier to manage your current responsibilities while you learn, enhancing both your personal and professional life.

    Coursera offers the following free courses:

    • Data Science – using powerful tools and methods to find meaningful patterns and make sense of information from data
      • Amazon Web Services: Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
      • Amazon Web Services: Fundamentals of Analytics on AWS
      • Amazon Web Services: Exploring Artificial Intelligence Use Cases and Applications
      • Amazon Web Services: Developing Generative AI Solutions
      • Amazon Web Services: Responsible AI Practices
      • Amazon Web Services: Essentials of Prompt Engineering
    • Business – an organization or activity that provides goods or services to make a profit.
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Business Finance, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Sales and Marketing, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Digital Marketing Strategy with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Grow Your Business with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Negotiation, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Amazon Web Services: Introduction to Generative AI – Art of the Possible
    • Computer Science – study of how computers work, how to design and build them, and how to create instructions (software) for them to solve problems
      • Princeton University: Computer Science – Programming with a Purpose
      • Princeton University: Algorithms, Part I
      • Princeton University: Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies
      • Princeton University: Computer Science – Algorithms, Theory, and Machines
      • Princeton University: Analysis of Algorithms
      • Infosec: Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

    How to Sign Up on Coursera

    To sign up for a free class on Coursera, first, go to their website. Then, search for a course you’re interested in. When you find one, look for an “Enroll for Free” button. You might need to choose the “Audit the Course” option, which lets you view most of the course materials without getting a certificate or graded assignments. If you don’t see “Audit,” sometimes you can choose “Full Course, no Certificate” for similar access.

    Good luck and don’t be afraid to advance! #LifelongLearning

  • Great Educational Apps for Kids that makes Learning Made Fun

    Not sure if you noticed, but the education system is changing. It hasn’t been the same since the pandemic when all students and teachers had to move to virtual learning. My daughter has an Amazon Kids tablet that came fully loaded with many apps geared towards learning everything from letters and numbers to reading, sentence structure and science. I can honestly say because I invested in her learning as early as 6 months old, she is doing exceptionally well in Kindergarten. Keep in mind, we still work on handwriting, reading, and math, but her using a tablet is a great addition to her learning.

    I know me saying it is okay to have your kids on tablets, even though according to the American Pediatrics Association, there’s only so much time a child should be on their electronic devices.

    The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time for children under 18 to 24 months, except for video chatting. For children 2 to 5 years old, the AAP recommends limiting screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming. For children 6 and older, the AAP encourages healthy habits and limits activities that include screens.

    However if you choose to keep your kids on their tablets longer than the suggested time, at least make their tablet time engaging and educational. Whether your child is just starting their educational journey or seeking additional enrichment, there are numerous options to explore. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the top educational websites for kids under 10, including both paid and free options.

    ABCmouse
    ABCmouse is a comprehensive early learning academy that covers subjects such as reading, math, science, and art. With a wide range of interactive games, puzzles, and activities, ABCmouse keeps young learners engaged while they develop essential skills. The platform offers a structured curriculum designed for children ages 2-8. ABCmouse provides a free trial period, after which a subscription fee is required, typically around $9.95 per month.

    Starfall
    Starfall is another fantastic educational website that focuses on teaching reading and mathematics through phonics-based learning. My kid’s school uses this platform as part of their curriculum on their school laptops, and she absolutely loves it. The site features interactive activities, songs, and stories that cater to children in pre-K through grade 3. Starfall offers a free basic membership with limited access to content. For full access to all features, including printable materials and mobile apps, a paid membership is available for approximately $35 per year. Currently this can be accessed on laptop/desktop.

    ABCya
    ABCya is another kid-fave in my home that offers educational games and activities for children in grades Pre-K through 6. With a wide variety of games covering subjects like math, language arts, and typing, ABCya provides a fun and educational experience for young learners. The website is free to use, with some advertisements displayed on the site. ABCya also offers premium memberships for families and educators, providing ad-free access to all content for a yearly fee. ABCya can be accessed on laptop or tablet, and can be added as an app to your child’s Amazon Kids tablet.

    PBS Kids
    PBS Kids provides a wealth of educational content based on popular children’s television programs. From interactive games and videos to printable activities and lesson plans, PBS Kids offers resources for children of all ages. The website covers various subjects, including literacy, science, and social studies, and encourages creativity and exploration. Even if you want to teach your babies how to brush their teeth, check out Daniel Tiger on the app. Best of all, PBS Kids is entirely free to use, making it accessible to families on any budget.

    Khan Academy Kids
    Khan Academy Kids offers a personalized learning experience for children ages 2-8. The platform features interactive activities, books, and videos designed to promote early literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Khan Academy Kids is completely free to use, with no ads or subscriptions required, making it an excellent option for families looking for high-quality educational content at no cost.

    NOTE: Check with your kids’ teachers to see if they use any of these websites in the classroom. If so, ask for an access code so your child(ren) can continue learning at home. If allowed, the teacher will be happy to share that code. This helps you and your teacher(s) track their progress between the classroom and home. Starfall, ABCya, and Khan Academy Kids for sure has tracking between teacher and parents. While ABCmouse isn’t used in the classroom, it is a helpful learning supplement at home.

    In conclusion, these top educational websites provide valuable resources for children under the age of 10 to learn and explore in a fun and engaging way. Whether you’re looking for a structured curriculum like ABCmouse or a more flexible learning experience like PBS Kids, there’s something for every young learner. With the accessibility of both paid and free options, parents and educators can find the perfect fit to support their child’s educational journey. Your child can learn at home. Don’t wait until we’re under order to stay indoors again and do virtual learning with the kids. Dive into the world of online learning and watch your child thrive!

  • Mom on a Mission: Level Up Your Skills Online!

    Being a mom is the most rewarding job in the world, but sometimes you might crave a little personal growth too. Maybe you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, change careers, or even start your own business. The good news? You can achieve all of this – and more –  without sacrificing precious family time, thanks to the magic of online learning.

    Why Online Learning is a Mom’s Best Friend

    Flexibility: Learn at your own pace, whenever you have a spare moment (those nap times become golden!).

    Cost-effective: Online courses are generally more affordable than traditional education.

    Variety: There’s literally a course for everything – from business and marketing to tech skills and creative pursuits.

    Convenience: Learn from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas if you like!

    Level Up Your Skillset with Alison

    Alison is a fantastic platform bursting with free, high-quality online courses.  They offer a massive library on a wide range of topics, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest and helps you reach your goals.

    Here are some ideas to get you started:

    Career Changers: Explore courses in project management, bookkeeping, web development, graphic design, and more!

    Business Builders: Learn the essentials of marketing, social media, customer service, and starting your own business.

    Tech Savvy Moms: Brush up on your computer skills or delve into coding, data analysis, or cybersecurity.

    The sky’s the limit! With Alison, you can gain valuable skills and certifications that will make you a more competitive candidate in the job market or give you the confidence to launch your dream business.

    Ready to Take Action?

    Head over to Alison and browse their extensive course catalog.  You can use my affiliate link to get started on your learning journey today! Remember, moms – you are capable, you are strong, and you can achieve anything you set your mind to. With a little online learning, you can be that mom who has it all – a fulfilling career, a happy family, and the satisfaction of personal growth.

    Bonus Tip: Don’t be afraid to start small. Take one course at a time and celebrate your progress.  You’ve got this, mama!