Get Smart

Just when you think you can't possibly cram any more information into your already over-taxed brain, along comes the internet with an offer impossible to refuse:

Learn what you want, when you want. For free.

And it looks like everybody, from Barnes and Noble to Goodwill has gotten into the act.

As you might expect, the bulk of the formalized learning opportunities available online focus on computer-related skills, but tutorials also are available for those with more diverse learning needs, from handicrafts to time management. And while some of the learning opportunities may cover only the fundamentals, other courses offer in-depth training and guidance.

And, seemingly, all you need are a computer, internet access and motivation.

Before you take the plunge, you may want to consider the fact that not everyone is suited for distance education. Goodwill Global Learning has a short quiz you can take to see if you're up to the challenge, as well as helpful tutorials for some of the skills you may need.

To make the most of your free online education, you're probably going to have to be very self-motivated. You haven't put any money on the line, and no one else is likely to be nagging you to complete that last assignment. If you think motivation is a potential problem for you, take heart -- there's probably an online course out there that can teach you the skills you're going to need.

Time management is often another potential barrier to distance education. Depending on the subject you want to study, you may need to juggle some of your other commitments. And depending on your personal situation, that could very well be the biggest hurdle you have to face.

To make the most of a free online course, there may also be some technical requirements, like an internet service provider that allows you to spend the time you need online without charging you an arm and a leg. And the various online learning centers may have some specific computer requirements as well.

Some sites, for example, may require particular, albeit common, plug-ins just to get on campus. The plug-in may even be free to download, but if you're new to the Net, downloading may be precisely the thing you were wanting to learn in the first place.

If you're interested in free online courses, check out Online Learning Sites. It may take a long time to check out the list of online learning links you'll find there, but you'll probably be a lot smarter by the time you're done. Along with a gazillion links for free courses, the site also includes links that offer courses costing modest sums of money.

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