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What makes FutureLearn different?

We’re not going to deny it - we know there are other free online online course websites. But here's how FutureLearn is different.

This post is part of Getting started with FutureLearn a series about the basics of using FutureLearn.
This post is part of Getting started with FutureLearn a series about the basics of using FutureLearn.

We’re not going to deny it – we know there are other free online course websites. In fact, if you’re reading this you might even have used them (how could you?). 

If you have used other course websites, lots about FutureLearn will feel familiar: watching videos, reading articles, writing and reviewing assignments.

But while the course materials might sometimes seem similar, FutureLearn is quite different. Here’s how:

FutureLearn doesn’t just work with universities.

Yes we do work with some of the best universities from around the world but we also work with some of the best institutions, like the British Council and the National Film and Television school. Why? Well, it’s simply because…

We love all subjects.

If you use FutureLearn you won’t just find courses about tech and business skills, you will also find courses about creativity, the humanities, healthcare, politics and plenty more.

We know the importance of stories.

We know that stories help people learn, that’s why you will find that storytelling runs throughout our courses – like how you can solve a case while studying forensics or explore Irish history through those who lived there.

We’re very social.

Social interaction is right at the heart of what we do. We want to put an end to the loneliness of the long-distance learner. That’s why, throughout our courses, you’ll find discussion steps and chances to debate and interact with other learners. You can even like comments and follow them (find out how to make the most of this) and get notifications about conversations you’re involved in. That way everyone learns from each other, discovering new perspectives and forming new ideas.

You can use FutureLearn anywhere.

Your mobile, your tablet, your desktop, your laptop – FutureLearn is designed to work easily across different devices.

We look lovely.

We’re really quite proud of our design. In fact we’ve won awards for user experience and we’re dedicated to making sure everything works the best way it can – even down to the details. That’s why you’ll find us discussing personal pronouns and atomic design on our blog.

Now you’re convinced –  find a course.

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