E-learning courses can help you learn instructional design, online assessment strategies, multimedia content creation, and learner engagement techniques. You can build skills in creating interactive learning experiences, utilizing analytics to improve course effectiveness, and fostering community in virtual classrooms. Many courses introduce tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS), authoring software, and video editing applications, that support developing and delivering engaging online education.

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Course Development, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Educational Materials, Multimedia, Instructional Design, Learning Theory, User Experience Design, Design, Design Thinking, Disabilities, Brainstorming, Education Software and Technology, Professional Development, Needs Assessment, Content Creation, Motivational Skills, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, User Centered Design, Prototyping, Design Strategies
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Differentiated Instruction, Digital pedagogy, Collaborative Software, Education Software and Technology, digital literacy, Emerging Technologies, Innovation
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Geneva
Skills you'll gain: Digital pedagogy, Instructional Design, Learning Management Systems, Game Design, Collaborative Software, Simulations, Emerging Technologies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Innovation, Lesson Planning, Education Software and Technology, Digital pedagogy, Learning Management Systems, Instructional Strategies, Pedagogy, Telecommuting, Teamwork, Collaboration, Student-Centred Learning, Student Engagement, Community Development, Instructional Design, Classroom Management, Learning Strategies, Virtual Environment, Creative Thinking, digital literacy, Artificial Intelligence
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Video Production, Infographics, Course Development, Developing Training Materials, Multimedia, Podcasting, Discussion Facilitation, Digital pedagogy, Content Creation, Constructive Feedback, Instructional Design, Design Reviews, Education Software and Technology, Pedagogy, Storyboarding, Teaching, Design, Collaborative Software, Planning, Virtual Environment
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Tecnológico de Monterrey
Skills you'll gain: Digital pedagogy, Education Software and Technology, Instructional Design, Problem Solving, digital literacy, Educational Materials, Emerging Technologies, Learning Management Systems, Innovation, Quality Assurance, Planning, Resourcefulness, Learning Strategies, Systems Analysis, Solution Design, Design Strategies, Creative Thinking, User Centered Design, Technical Documentation, Virtual Environment
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Politecnico di Milano
Skills you'll gain: Blended Learning, Pedagogy, Large Language Modeling, Digital pedagogy, LLM Application, Instructional Design, Learning Strategies, Education Software and Technology, Interactive Learning, Educational Materials, AI Personalization, Innovation, Differentiated Instruction, Lifelong Learning, AI Enablement, Human Learning, Solution Design, Adult Learning Principles, Prompt Engineering Tools, Artificial Intelligence
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Educational Materials, Multimedia, Instructional Design, Education Software and Technology, Professional Development, Content Creation, Design Strategies, Quality Assurance, Constructive Feedback, Communication
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

The University of Edinburgh
Skills you'll gain: Educational Materials, Learning Strategies, Instructional Design, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Learning Management Systems, Web Content, Digital pedagogy, Education Software and Technology, Diversity Awareness, User Centered Design, Creative Thinking, Content Management, Cultural Responsiveness
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Human Learning, Learning Strategies, Quick Learning, Learning Theory, Lifelong Learning, Mental Concentration, Willingness To Learn, Cognitive flexibility, Productivity, Scientific Methods
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

EDHEC Business School
Skills you'll gain: Digital pedagogy, Education Software and Technology, Responsible AI, Data Ethics, Emerging Technologies, Innovation, Digital Transformation, New Product Development, Business Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Investments, Strategic Decision-Making
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Education Software and Technology, Digital pedagogy, Real Time Data, Google Workspace
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
E-learning, or electronic learning, refers to the use of digital technologies to facilitate education and training. It encompasses a wide range of learning experiences, from online courses to interactive simulations. The importance of e-learning lies in its accessibility and flexibility; it allows learners to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. This approach not only caters to diverse learning styles but also addresses the growing demand for continuous education in a rapidly changing job market.‎
Careers in e-learning are diverse and can range from instructional designers to e-learning developers and project managers. Instructional designers create engaging and effective learning experiences, while e-learning developers focus on the technical aspects, such as programming and multimedia production. Additionally, roles like e-learning coordinators and training specialists are crucial for implementing and managing e-learning programs in organizations. As companies increasingly adopt digital training solutions, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow.‎
To thrive in the e-learning sector, several key skills are essential. First, a solid understanding of instructional design principles is crucial for creating effective learning materials. Familiarity with e-learning authoring tools, such as Articulate or Adobe Captivate, is also important. Additionally, strong communication skills are necessary to convey information clearly and effectively. Technical skills, including basic programming and multimedia production, can further enhance your capabilities in this field. Lastly, adaptability and a willingness to learn new technologies are vital in this ever-evolving landscape.‎
Some of the best e-learning courses online focus on various aspects of digital education. For instance, e-Learning Ecologies: Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning for the Digital Age offers insights into modern teaching strategies. Additionally, courses like Mastering Remote Work and Online Study in U.S. in the post-COVID Era provide practical skills for navigating online environments. These courses are designed to equip learners with the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in e-learning.‎
Yes. You can start learning e-learning on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in e-learning, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
E-learning courses typically cover a variety of topics, including instructional design principles, multimedia production, learning management systems, and assessment strategies. You may also encounter subjects related to user experience design, digital content creation, and the integration of technology in education. These topics are essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of how to create effective e-learning experiences that engage and educate learners.‎
For training and upskilling employees, courses that focus on practical applications and relevant skills are most beneficial. Programs that cover instructional design, e-learning development, and digital content creation can help organizations enhance their training initiatives. Courses like Adobe Content Creator Professional Certificate and Adobe Graphic Designer Professional Certificate can also provide valuable skills for creating engaging learning materials tailored to workforce needs.‎