Happy Learning! - Links to free sites

It took me thirty years to finish my Bachelor degree; I took time off along the way to raise three children and got busy with other things. 

Educational benefits from my employers prompted me to get back to it, but once I finished, the feeling of accomplishment was indescribable and I look back and wonder why I waited so long. Although the semester has begun, it’s never too late to start reaching a goal, many courses are now in non-traditional formats, such as with accelerated courses, and may be offered during the summer. ​

My next course is an accelerated course beginning in March.  Advances with on-line learning can make degrees easier to complete.

I was able to complete the Bachelor degree through on-line courses at I.U.P.U.I., and I am now working on the Master degree with the University of Indianapolis.  I’ve always loved learning and can honestly say that each course has taught me something new.  
​
Learning opportunities are boundless in and out of school.  Continuing your education or volunteering may add a zest for life helping you to maintain and sharpen skills and enjoy hobbies. Keeping the body and mind active can help us to stay younger longer.  Seek out opportunities in your local communities such as at libraries, recreation centers, and senior centers. You may find learning opportunities, recreation, art, and social networks that add so much to your life. Remember to appreciate and learn from each person you encounter.  We all have had different life experiences and so much can be gained from sharing over a cup of coffee or tea. By listening and learning about another, you may even help them to know themselves a little better and also strengthen your friendship.
​
Below are some links to many free online opportunities for learning, including podcasts.  There are numerous opportunities for learning computer, language, and business skills.  There are also courses on personal development, health, and caregiving. For a few of the sites, you must select the free options and some have ads that may be distracting. The last four are sites that can be shared with children. It’s fun to learn together!

Alison
BBC Podcasts
Brigham Young Online Courses
Carnegie Mellon Open Learning
Coursera
EdX
GCF Learn Free
Lesson Paths
memRise
MIT Open Courseware
Open Education Database
Open 2 Study
Open Learn
Open Yale
Saylor
Stanford Online
Stanford on iTunes
Stanford Online - Palliative Care Always
TuftsOpenCourseware
TedEd
The Library of Congress - American Memory
Udemy
Utah State University
uMass Boston Open Courseware
Fun Brain
Khan Academy
Kids National Geographic
Whyville