Whether you're thinking about starting your own freelance writing business or are an established professional looking to enhance your skills, there are free online writing classes available to fit your needs.
The Appeal of Online Learning
For freelance writers, online learning can be a wonderful resource. You can work at your own pace, choose topics that interest you, and not have to worry about getting stage fright from sharing your work in a room full of strangers. Free online writing courses are even better, since they let you develop your writing skills without placing unnecessary strain on your budget.
Free Online Writing Classes to Boost Your Career
If you're looking for free online writing classes, LoveToKnow Freelance Writing recommends the following:
- Technology for Professional Writers: Although this course is a few years old, the material covered is a great confidence builder for writers who are leery of working with technology. The section on "Dangers to Your Computer" is particularly useful for those who are worried about spam, viruses, adware, and hackers.
- Communicating in Cyberspace: If you're interested in how to transition from print to Web writing, this is a good general introduction. The course discusses communication on the Web from the perspective of language, design, and information architecture.
- Ezine University: If you've been toying with the idea of starting your own publication, this series of short courses will teach you everything you need to know about creating an ezine, marketing your publication, and generating income through advertisement sales.
- Technical Writing: This short course is offered by Wikiversity, a collaborative effort that encourages people to share their knowledge with others. It's a good overview of what is involved in obtaining work in the technical writing field.
- Fiction Writing: If you have dreams of becoming a bestselling novelist, but can't seem to get started on your project, this class will inspire you to reach your goals. Topics covered include creating characters, the importance of setting, and the uses of genre.
50 Open Courseware Writing Classes also has several interesting suggestions for freelancers interested in improving their general writing skills or learning more about a potential area of specialization.
Making the Most of Online Learning
To get the most from your online learning experience, remember the following tips:
- Designate a set time when you plan to do your coursework. Even though online learning is flexible, you'll be more likely to complete the class if you treat it like any other obligation in your schedule.
- Buy a 3-ring binder to file printed copies of your class materials and add your personal notes from each lesson. When the class is over, you'll have a valuable reference guide to what you have learned.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. With online learning, you need to be the one who takes the initiative. If you're struggling, ask for help on the class forum or try to email the instructor.
Earning a Degree Online
While free online writing classes can be a good way to brush up on your writing skills, it's not possible to earn a degree online for free. If you do want to pursue an online degree, however, you can learn more about this topic by reviewing the following articles on LoveToKnow College:
- College Degree Online
- Online Accredited University Directory
- Online College Education
- University of Phoenix
