What’s the best online course you’ve ever taken?

When we read this prompt, it made us pause. In today’s world, online courses have become a norm. But most of us have experienced those platforms where, as soon as you log in, you are immediately asked for your credit card details with eye-watering prices.

That is why in answering this question about the best online course, we want to shine a light on a platform that takes a refreshingly different approach: Alison.

Alison is an online learning platform with thousands of courses that range from one hour to over twenty hours to complete, offering certifications that are recognized by institutions worldwide.

Since we are fascinated by good stories, we have to share the story behind the name itself. When the founder, Mike Feerick, was looking for a name for his platform, he wanted something easy to pronounce in almost any language. Crucially, it had to start with the letter ‘A’ so it would naturally rank at the top of directory listings. That’s how he came up with the name Alison.

When he went to register the website address (alison.com), however, it was already taken by a woman named Alison in the United States. When he reached out to purchase it, her initial answer was a resounding no. She wanted the name for herself. But Mike persisted. When she eventually asked what he actually wanted the name for, his answer was simple: to provide free education to the world. Moved by the mission, she finally agreed to pass it on to him—and that is how Alison.com came to life.

The true beauty of Alison is the genuine opportunity to learn for free.

The only costs involved are your internet data and a small fee if you choose to order a physical or digital copy of your qualification—which is remarkably fair considering how expensive traditional education can be. They offer both certificates and diplomas across a vast range of subjects.

As an agency, we are glad to have used their platform multiple times—including when our Editorial Director earned her certificate through them earlier this year.

Normally, when studying through traditional educational systems, it is easy to feel as though you aren’t keeping up. Instructors can move faster than you can follow, and other students might seem to pick things up instantly. That is where platforms like Alison are exceptional. You get to learn at your own pace. You can pause, rewind, and internalize the material until it truly clicks.

At its core, Alison reminds us of something vital: learning should be enjoyable. It restores the simple joy of discovery. In such an environment, you can have several best courses!

Life is a continuous classroom, and the moment we stop learning, we stop growing. Whatever field you are in, make room to acquire a new skill or sharpen an old one. Stay curious and make lifelong learning a personal daily goal.

Have an inspired week!

Thank you for reading! These reflections are part of our weekly inspiration series, running every Monday on the Lapatutu Blog. See you next Monday!