edX.org is the trusted platform for global online learning with free courses from some of the the world's most respected colleges and learning providers. Smart Futures has worked with edX to identify courses specifically related to both the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Career Education and Work and the Pennsylvania Career Ready SEL Standards.
The current courses are targeted to high school students and adults. We are working on identifying courses for younger students. Courses fit into 3 categories: Career Ready, Information Technology, and Test Prep (AP test prep). Examples of current courses include:
- Teamwork and Collaboration from Rochester Institute of Technology
- Becoming an Entrepreneur from Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Understanding Technology from Harvard University
- AP Physics from Rice University
These courses can be used by teachers to provide high quality, dynamic Future Ready content within their classrooms. For example, a rural district with little access to IT resources in their area could offer an Introduction to Computers course using Harvard's famous CS50 Understanding Technology course for content and highly engaging instruction.
Students can audit classes for free. For a small fee, students or their parents can opt for the paid Verified track and receive a certificate from the university or provider that they can upload to their portfolio or LinkedIn profile. Note: Students will be asked to create a separate edX account the first time they begin a class.
Courses will be available in the SKILLS section next week.
