Project-based Learning Platforms to Try in 2024

As education continues to evolve, project-based learning (PBL) platforms are becoming essential tools for delivering practical, real-world learning experiences. In this article, we dive into some of the top project-based learning platforms that offer comprehensive educational resources in tech.

1. EntryLevel

EntryLevel offers a fast-paced, project-based learning environment ideal for tech newcomers. It emphasizes practical experience through hands-on projects and supported by a vibrant community on Discord.

Pricing: Approximately $49 per course. Check individual courses for most updated pricing.

Offered courses: Offers beginner-friendly tech courses on UX Design, Data Analysis, Product Management and more.

Course structure: EntryLevel puts an emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning with a mix of video lessons, interactive exercises, short reading materials, and portfolio projects. These include additional resources, such as templates, examples, and AI chatbots to support your learning.

Flexibility: Self-paced learning format, designed to be completed in 6 weeks.

Community: Active support and networking available through an engaging Discord community.

Portfolio: Yes.

Certificate: Yes, upon course completion.

2. Coursera

Coursera provides a wide array of online courses and degrees from top universities and companies worldwide. It offers flexibility in learning with options ranging from free courses to professional certificates and advanced degrees.

Pricing: Free for many individual courses, with Guided Projects starting at $9.99. Specializations and Professional Certificates start at $39.99 per month.
Offered Courses: Broad range including IT, data science, business, and more.
Course Structure: Offers a mix of video lectures, peer-reviewed assignments, and community discussion forums.
Flexibility: Most courses offer flexible deadlines that accommodate self-paced learning.
Community: Large community with interactive forums.
Portfolio: Some courses and specializations include projects that can be used in a professional portfolio.
Certificate: Yes.

3. edX

Known for its rigorous academic offerings, edX delivers courses in partnership with the world’s leading universities. It offers both free and certificate-track options across a broad range of subjects, with a strong focus on STEM disciplines.

Pricing: edX offers free courses that don’t come with certificates. The price for paid courses with certificates ranges from $50 to $300 USD.

Offered courses: Choose from a wide range of categories with over 4,300 courses.

Course structure: Learning is done through video lectures, readings, assignments, and quizzes.

Flexibility: Offers 2 types of courses: self-paced and instructor-paced.

Community: Provides discussion forums for collaboration and interaction among students.

Portfolio: Some courses offer practical projects.

Certificate: Yes, for paid courses.

4. Pluralsight

Pluralsight focuses on tech and creative content, offering a vast library of courses aimed at professionals looking to improve their technology skills. It provides a self-paced learning environment with paths for skills assessment and enhancement.

Pricing: Monthly subscription starts at $29, with premium options available for more in-depth courses and features.
Offered Courses: Focuses on technology skills like software development, IT ops, data science, information & cyber security.
Course Structure: Video-based learning with skill assessments and hands-on practice.
Flexibility: Self-paced learning environment.
Community: Peer-to-peer learning and forums for discussion.
Portfolio: Some courses include practical exercises that can be added to professional portfolios.
Certificate: Yes, upon course completion.

5. FutureLearn

FutureLearn excels in providing a diverse range of courses in partnership with academic institutions and cultural organizations globally. It promotes an interactive learning environment where students can purchase upgrades for additional benefits like certificates.

Pricing: Free access to courses with options to pay for certificates and unlimited access.
Offered Courses: A diverse array from business and management to healthcare and medicine, as well as creative arts.
Course Structure: Short video lectures with discussion steps and written assignments.
Flexibility: Set over a few weeks with fixed start and end dates but provide flexibility within the course duration.
Community: Community interaction within course discussions.
Portfolio: Some courses offer projects that help build a professional portfolio.
Certificate: Yes, for a fee upon course completion.

Summary

Here are 5 platforms that provide diverse opportunities for learners to engage with project-based learning, enhancing their skills through practical application and collaboration.

Whether you're seeking to advance your career or broaden your knowledge, these platforms offer valuable resources to achieve your educational goals.