How to learn new skills through the Internet

Would you love to learn a new skill simply for your own interest and satisfaction or to add an impressive tool to your skill set? Take advantage of online resources and discover the most inexpensive ways to learn a new skill through the Internet.

Even if you can't afford to go back to school, there are ways to learn without paying pricey college fees.

• As Internet access is now widely available to the majority of Canadians, more people are able to save money by taking advantage of inexpensive learning resources available on the web. Use a search engine to find out about your chosen subject.

Use a search engine to find a forum, email list or bulletin board to join, and receive the benefit of other students' learning experience in your chosen subject.

• Your university or college may also have a forum or email list you can join.

Many websites offer free online courses.  Some advantages of learning online are the wealth of material you have at your fingertips, all in one place.

• Many sites have self-guided courses you can take in a wide variety of subject areas.
• Other sites include university open courses.

Because courses are online, you are not limited to those based in Canada. For example, you can quickly find online courses based in the United States, some for as low as US$20 each term.

• If a course at your local school is too expensive, find out whether a school specializing in distance learning offers the same course.
• Prices may be considerably cheaper and the courses even more flexible than the part-time or evening courses offered at local colleges and universities.

Online courses are widely available so you can find one that fits your schedule and budget perfectly—what are you waiting for?