The most popular online courses for engineering

There are several online courses in engineering that are suitable for beginners at the age of 16 in the UK. These courses cover a range of engineering disciplines and provide a good introduction to basic concepts. Here are some popular online courses:

MIT OpenCourseWare:

MIT offers a wide range of free online courses in engineering. Some suitable for beginners include:

• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
• Introduction to Electrical Engineering and Computer Science I
• Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and Design

edX:

edX offers a variety of courses from top universities. Some beginner-friendly options include:

• Circuit Design and Analysis
• Introduction to Engineering Mechanics

Coursera:

Coursera has courses from universities worldwide. Beginners might find these courses helpful:

• Introduction to Engineering Mechanics
• Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There

Khan Academy:

Khan Academy provides free, self-paced courses covering various subjects. Some relevant courses for beginners include:

• Physics
• Engineering and Computer Science

Udemy:

Udemy offers a range of engineering courses, including some suitable for beginners:

• Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
• Introduction to Electrical Engineering
• Introduction to Civil Engineering

Tips for Choosing Courses:

• Look for courses that match your interests within engineering, whether it’s mechanical, electrical, civil, or another specialty.
• Check the course descriptions and syllabus to ensure they cover foundational topics.
• Consider courses with hands-on projects or labs to apply what you learn.
• Read reviews and ratings from other learners to gauge the course quality.

Additional Suggestions:

Engineering Organizations:

• Consider joining organizations like the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which offers resources and information for young engineers.

STEM Programs:

• Look for local STEM programs or workshops that provide hands-on learning experiences.

Books and Magazines:

• Reading engineering magazines and books can also provide valuable insights. Magazines like “New Scientist” and “Engineering & Technology Magazine” cover a wide range of engineering topics.

Remember that at 16, it’s a great time to explore different areas of engineering to find what interests you the most. Online courses, along with practical projects and experiences, can help you gain a solid foundation and prepare you for further studies in engineering.