If you’re wondering how to keep up with the quickly evolving field of education and training, online learning platforms provide an answer. With their adaptable and user-friendly approaches to learning anything, anywhere, at any time, these platforms will significantly impact education in the future.
These platforms have become even more crucial as so many courses and resources are available to help professionals and students stay ahead of the curve.
This article discusses the top ten online learning platforms for 2024 and provides a road map of the most innovative and useful choices available. Let us commence!
Quick Overview: Top Online Learning Platforms
Platform Name
Best use case
G2 Ratings
Thinkific
Course Creators
4.6/5
Coursera
Academic Learning
4.5/5
LinkedIn Learning
Professional Development
4.4/5
Skillshare
Creative Skills
3.3/5
Teachable
Entrepreneurs
4.0/5
TalentLMS
Small to Medium Businesses
4.6/5
Docebo
Compliance Training
4.3/5
Moodle
Educational Institutions
4.1/5
Canvas LMS
Higher Education
4.4/5
Engagedly LXP
Corporate Training
4.3/5
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 online learning platforms for 2024, each with its unique strengths and offerings:
1. Thinkific
Thinkific is an intuitive platform that helps business owners design, promote, and sell virtual courses. It provides a range of multimedia course content.
Best Project Features:
Drag-and-Drop Course Builder: Without technological knowledge, easily build courses.
Comprehensive Marketing Tools: Combined tools to aid in successfully promoting courses.
Extensive Integration Options: Connects with over 100 external applications.
Pros:
The intuitive user interface makes course creation simple.
Strong marketing features help maximize course sales.
There are no native advanced analytics for tracking learner progress.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.5/5 (463 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.4/5 (184 reviews)
2. Coursera
Coursera offers online degrees and courses through partnerships with institutions and organizations worldwide. It is well known for its challenging academic offerings and wide course options.
Best Project Features:
University-Level Courses: Enroll in classes created by top universities.
Professional Certificates: Get professional certificates that are accepted by employers.
Financial Aid Available: Provides support to students in need of financial aid.
Pros:
Wide variety of courses from top-tier universities.
Provides both free and paid course options.
Cons:
Free courses don’t come with certificates
Certificates can be expensive.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.5/5 (428 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.5/5 (17 reviews)
3. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning provides video tutorials taught by professionals in software, creative, and business competencies. It also offers LinkedIn’s professional networking tools.
Best Project Features:
Organized Career Development routes with opportunities for in-depth education.
Connecting on LinkedIn: Expands professional opportunities and networks.
Skilled Instructors: Professionals with real-world experience teach the classes.
Pros:
Seamless integration with LinkedIn profiles.
Wide range of courses tailored to professionals.
Cons:
Mainly focuses on soft skills and business courses.
Need a LinkedIn profile to access learning
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.4/5 (675 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.6/5 (93 reviews)
4. Skillshare
With courses in writing, design, and photography, Skillshare specializes in producing creative content. It supports the use of a community-based learning strategy.
Best Project Features:
Creative Course Offerings: Wide range of courses in creative fields.
Community Interaction: Learners can collaborate and give feedback.
Project-Based Learning: Focuses on learning by doing.
Pros:
Ideal for creatives looking to enhance their skills.
Encourages active learning through projects.
Cons:
Minimally customizable
Limited in-depth courses in non-creative subjects.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 3.3/5 (41 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.7/5 (10 reviews)
5. Teachable
With the help of Teachable’s robust platform, individuals and small businesses may design and market customized online courses. Its scalability and ease of usage are designed in.
Best Project Features:
Customizable Branding: Tailor your course appearance to match your brand.
Comprehensive Sales Tools: Includes features like coupons, promotions, and affiliate programs.
Integrated Payment Processing: Simplifies course sales with built-in payment gateways.
Pros:
Setup and management are made simple with an intuitive UI.
Gives substantial control over student data and course costs.
Cons:
Students and teachers don’t engage as much.
Compared to others, the pricing structure is not as scalable.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4/5 (46 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.3/5 (170 reviews)
6. TalentLMS
TalentLMS prioritizes ease and flexibility in its design to support corporate training. It is appropriate for companies of all sizes looking to simplify their training procedures.
Best Project Features:
Scalability: Adapts to any size of organization.
Gamification Features: Boosts learning engagement by implementing gamification.
Pros:
Highly intuitive setup and daily management.
Extensive customization options.
Cons:
More than basic reporting features may be required for larger enterprises.
The user interface can feel outdated.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.6/5 (726 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.7/5 (537 reviews)
7. Docebo
AI creates personalized learning experiences, which is how Docebo differentiates itself. Large companies aiming to improve and automate learning outcomes can benefit from this.
Best Project Features:
Artificial Intelligence: Tailors learning paths based on user behavior.
Social Learning Tools: Encourages knowledge sharing among peers.
Robust Reporting: Offers advanced analytics for comprehensive tracking.
Pros:
AI features create a highly customized learning environment.
Strong integration capabilities with other enterprise tools.
Cons:
Higher costs can be a barrier for smaller businesses.
The platform’s advanced features require a learning curve.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.3/5 (612 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.4/5 (204 reviews)
8. Moodle
Moodle is a free, open-source learning platform widely used in educational institutions worldwide. It’s celebrated for its flexibility and extensive customization options.
Best Project Features:
Open-Source: Allows for deep customization and scalability.
Community Support: Benefits from a large global community.
Plugin Variety: Offers numerous plugins to enhance functionality.
Pros:
Highly customizable to fit specific educational needs.
Supports a massive range of languages and users worldwide.
Cons:
It requires technical expertise to set up and customize.
The free version of Moodle is not customizable.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.1/5 (398 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.3 (3286 reviews)
9. Canvas LMS
Because of its user-friendly layout and robust support for group learning, Canvas LMS is preferred in educational environments. It makes integrating with a variety of educational resources simple.
Best Project Features:
User-Friendly Interface: Known for its clean and modern user interface.
Comprehensive Integration: Works seamlessly with many third-party tools.
Rich Media Support: Enhances courses with videos, audio, and interactive content.
Pros:
The layout is intuitive and simplifies the learning process, which is a plus.
Robust support systems and community.
Cons:
Multiple functionalities can be too much for inexperienced users to handle.
Mobile apps could be made more functional.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.4/5 (1483 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.6/5 (4086 reviews)
10. Engagedly LXP
Engagedly LXP provides a full range of learning and development tools for contemporary business settings. This platform focuses on learning together, making it perfect for companies promoting a culture of ongoing enhancement.
Best Project Features:
Gamification: Engages users by integrating game mechanics into learning activities.
Social Learning: Boosts knowledge sharing through social media features within the platform.
Customizable Learning Paths: Allows the creation of tailored courses to meet specific training needs.
Pros:
High customization options enhance the user experience.
Strong support for mobile learning adapts to on-the-go professionals.
Cons:
Initial setup can be complex without proper IT support.
Premium pricing may deter small businesses.
What People Think:
G2 Review: 4.5/5 (538 reviews)
Capterra Review: 4.6/5 (44 reviews)
How to Choose the Best Online Learning Platform
Choosing the correct online learning platform is crucial for educational or training achievements.
Here’s a guide on how to make a well-informed decision:
1. Cost
Budget Alignment: Evaluate how well the platform matches your budget.
Subscription vs. One-time Payment: Decide which payment plan aligns with your financial circumstances.
Hidden Costs: Be aware of any additional fees for certifications, extra features, or updates.
2. Features
Course Variety: Ensure the platform offers courses that meet your specific needs.
Interactive Tools: Look for features like quizzes, forums, and live sessions that enhance learning.
Mobile Accessibility: Confirm if the platform is accessible on various devices, enhancing flexibility.
3. User Interface
Ease of Use: A straightforward, clean interface can greatly enhance the learning experience.
Navigation: Check how easy it is to find courses and resources.
Design Quality: A well-designed platform can keep users engaged and reduce learning fatigue.
4. Support
Customer Service: Reliable support is crucial, especially for troubleshooting and guidance.
Resources Available: Look for extensive resources like tutorials, FAQs, and community forums.
Response Time: Ensure the support team is responsive and helpful.
5. Scalability
Growth Accommodation: The platform should grow with your learning needs or business.
Upgrade Options: It should offer advanced features or content as your expertise grows.
Multiple Users Handling: Check if it supports multiple users efficiently, which is important for businesses.
What’s the Difference Between Online Learning Platforms and Learning Management Systems?
Understanding the distinction between online learning platforms and learning management systems (LMS) is key to selecting the right tools for educational and training endeavors.
Online Learning Platforms
Online learning platforms are web-based portals that offer educational content accessible from anywhere. These platforms are typically aimed at self-directed learning.
Purpose: Designed to provide a wide range of learning materials for individual learners, such as courses on specific subjects or skills.
Functionality: Focus on delivering course content. It often includes interactive components like videos, quizzes, and forums. It is suited for individuals looking to learn at their own pace.
Learning Management Systems:
An LMS is a software tool or online technology used to organize, execute, and evaluate an educational procedure.
Purpose: Schools and companies mainly use it to offer courses, provide training, manage enrollment, and track progress.
Functionality: It offers resources for producing, organizing, and providing educational materials. It also has functions for enrolling users, monitoring progress, and connecting with external platforms.
Key Differences:
Scope of Use: Online learning platforms are often public and accessible to anyone, whereas LMSs are usually restricted to registered users.
Control: Users generally have more control over learning paths on online platforms, whereas LMSs often have structured courses defined by instructors or administrators.
Benefits of Online Learning Platforms
Online learning platforms are changing how people and companies engage with education by providing a range of advantages that meet various learning requirements.
1. Flexibility
Online platforms offer unparalleled flexibility, enabling students to access educational materials anytime and anywhere.
This adaptability accommodates individuals with hectic schedules or those who like to determine their learning speed. You can begin and pause whenever necessary, integrating education into your lifestyle rather than restructuring your life for education.
2. Accessibility
Just by being connected to the internet, students from all around the globe can access educational material that may not be accessible in their local area. This accessibility eliminates obstacles based on location and income, providing equal access to excellent education for all.
3. Variety of Learning Resources
Learners can select from various multimedia resources, such as videos, articles, live webinars, and interactive tools. This range meets the needs of various learning preferences, enhancing the effectiveness and engagement of education.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Many online platforms offer courses that are more affordable than traditional education. Additionally, learners save on related costs such as travel and accommodation. Some platforms even provide free courses or scalable subscriptions based on what users can afford.
5. Wide Range of Subjects
Whether you’re interested in learning coding, design, management skills, or something more niche, online learning platforms likely offer it. The breadth of subjects allows individuals and companies to tailor education paths that align with their specific goals and industries.
6. Personalized Learning
Technology allows these platforms to provide tailored learning experiences. Classes can frequently be customized to fit the student’s pace and preferred learning method, with numerous resources offering adaptive assessments that change in difficulty according to the student’s progress.
7. Networking Opportunities
Online courses frequently offer forums and group projects where learners can connect. This networking can lead to professional opportunities and collaborations, adding a community aspect to digital education.
8. Skill Advancement
Practical and immediately applicable skills are the focus of many online courses. Completing these courses often grants certifications recognized by employers and can significantly boost your career prospects.
9. Continuous Learning
Online platforms facilitate lifelong learning, a critical component in maintaining professional relevance. With the rapid pace of change in most fields, continuous learning is necessary to keep up with new technologies and methodologies.
Key Online Learning Statistics
The growth and impact of online learning platforms are underscored by compelling statistics that illustrate their increasing adoption and effectiveness:
Market Growth: The global e-learning market is projected to reach almost $400 billion by 2026, growing from nearly $200 billion in 2019.
Adoption Rates: As of 2024, 68% of companies have online learning programs, with a significant shift from in-person training.
Mobile Learning: Mobile learning is one of the fastest-growing segments, expected to reach over $80 billion by 2027, with a strong CAGR of 20%.
Corporate Training: Around 90% of companies now offer some form of digital learning to employees, leading to a 20% increase in employee engagement and a 30% improvement in performance.
Environmental Impact: E-learning has a lower ecological footprint, reducing training’s carbon impact by up to 96% compared to in-person learning.
Start Building an Online Learning Platform with Engagedly
With the increasing shift toward digital education, creating an effective online learning environment is crucial for educational and organizational success. Engagedly offers a robust solution that enables you to build or enhance your online learning platform efficiently.
Personalized Learning Experiences: Create customized learning journeys corresponding to your unique objectives and audience’s requirements.
Scalable Solutions: Engagedly can accommodate your changing needs, whether you are a new business or a big company.
Engaging Tools: Interactive tools and collaborative features can help boost learner engagement and retention.
Engagedly platform smoothly integrates with your current workflows, simplifying the management and monitoring of learning progress. It also provides analytical tools to assist in comprehending and continuously enhancing the effects of your training initiatives.
Ready to transform how you train and develop talent? Visit Engagedly today to start your journey toward creating a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce.
Book a demo and revolutionize your learning strategy with Engagedly!
FAQs
1. What are the key features to look for in an online learning platform?
Search for platforms that offer a range of multimedia content, customized learning choices, interactive elements, in-depth analytics, and thorough user support to ensure a fruitful learning experience.
2. Can online learning platforms be customized for different organizational sizes?
Yes, numerous platforms, such as Engagedly, have great scalability. They provide a wide range of customization options that cater to different requirements, ensuring a perfect fit for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises.
3. How do online learning platforms enhance learner engagement?
These platforms incorporate interactive features such as gamification, video content, lively discussions, and immediate feedback. These characteristics help keep learners engaged and enhance knowledge retention.
4. What support can I expect when implementing an online learning platform?
Most providers offer thorough assistance, including initial setup, integration, ongoing maintenance, and user training. This guarantees a seamless implementation and aids organizations in optimizing the worth of their investment.
Srikant Chellappa is the Co-Founder and CEO at Engagedly and is a passionate entrepreneur and people leader. He is an author, producer/director of 6 feature films, a music album with his band Manchester Underground, and is the host of The People Strategy Leaders Podcast. He is currently working on his next book, Ikigai at the Workplace, which is slated for release in the fall of 2024.
