By Anna Hanuska
Though quarantine’s lack of structure depletes my motivation, I’m happy that I have time to learn more about things I’m interested in! Plus, with everyone stuck at home, there are even more free online resources.
Even during a pandemic, the local library remains a great learning resource. The actual library is closed, so you can’t check out a physical book, but there are plenty of ebooks and audiobooks offered. The Santa Clara County Library District website, sccld.org, also has resources to access free music, TV, and documentaries. In addition, it is offering a library subscription to Rosetta Stone, one of the best and most well-known language learning platforms. It offers 30 languages and can be accessed on a computer or a mobile app. You just have to go through the library website and log in with your library card. Rosetta Stone is a more complete language learning platform than apps like Duolingo, because it teaches more complete grammar, writing, and pronunciation. Another fun platform the library has access to is Creativebug. This website has lots of creative crafting lessons and tutorials on topics including sewing, knitting, art, and baking. These tutorials also include the necessary printable patterns when required, which is really helpful.
Various other websites also offer free learning materials. Sites like edX and Coursera allow you to audit classes for free, meaning that you have access to lectures, videos, and course resources, but don’t get to complete assignments or get graded. These sites partner with top universities like Harvard and MIT, as well as big companies like Microsoft, to offer their university and career development courses. If you want to get assignments and receive a certification upon completion, there is a fee, but it is still cheaper than enrolling at an actual college.
Keeping sane in isolation may be difficult, but learning new things definitely helps!