Best Online Public Speaking Courses

Finding the best online public speaking course can be a game-changer for your career and personal life. Whether you're aiming to ace presentations, lead meetings with confidence, or simply articulate your thoughts more effectively, the right course can provide you with the tools and techniques you need. This comprehensive comparison analyzes six top-rated online public speaking courses, considering their strengths, weaknesses, key features, and overall value. We've assessed each course based on factors like curriculum quality, instructor expertise, interactive elements, and user feedback, helping you make an informed decision and choose the course that best fits your individual needs and learning style. Invest in your communication skills and unlock your full potential with our detailed guide.

Coursera: "Effective Communication" Specialization by University of Colorado Boulder

Rating:
4.7/5

This specialization offers a comprehensive approach to communication, covering everything from foundational speaking skills to advanced persuasive techniques. Taught by experienced instructors from the University of Colorado Boulder, the course includes video lectures, interactive exercises, and peer feedback opportunities. It's designed to help learners develop confidence and competence in various communication settings, including public speaking, interpersonal communication, and professional presentations. The specialization culminates in a capstone project where learners apply their newly acquired skills to real-world scenarios.

Pros

  • Comprehensive curriculum covering various communication skills
  • Taught by experienced university instructors
  • Includes peer feedback and interactive exercises
  • Offers a certificate upon completion

Cons

  • Can be time-consuming due to the extensive content
  • Requires a Coursera subscription

Skillshare: "Speak With Confidence: Improve Your Public Speaking" by Jeremy Cohen

Rating:
4.5/5

Jeremy Cohen's Skillshare class focuses on building confidence and mastering fundamental public speaking techniques. This course is suitable for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. The course covers topics like overcoming fear, structuring speeches, and engaging your audience. Cohen's teaching style is direct and practical, providing actionable tips and exercises to help you improve quickly. Skillshare's platform makes it easy to access the course on various devices, and the project-based approach encourages active learning.

Pros

  • Practical and actionable advice
  • Focuses on building confidence
  • Affordable with Skillshare subscription
  • Suitable for beginners

Cons

  • Less comprehensive than university-level courses
  • Relies heavily on self-directed learning

Udemy: "Public Speaking Revolution: Become a Confident Speaker"

Rating:
4.3/5

This Udemy course promises to transform you into a confident and engaging speaker. It covers a wide range of topics, including speech writing, delivery techniques, and handling Q&A sessions. The course emphasizes practical exercises and real-world examples to help learners apply their knowledge. With lifetime access and a certificate of completion, this course offers a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their public speaking skills. The course is well-structured and easy to follow, making it suitable for learners of all levels.

Pros

  • Comprehensive coverage of public speaking topics
  • Practical exercises and real-world examples
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Certificate of completion

Cons

  • Quality can vary depending on the instructor
  • Requires self-discipline to complete the course

edX: "Communication Skills for Leaders" by Purdue University

Rating:
4.2/5

Purdue University's edX course focuses on developing communication skills specifically for leadership roles. This course explores various communication styles, strategies for effective team communication, and techniques for presenting information persuasively. It's designed for professionals who want to enhance their leadership presence and improve their ability to influence others. The course includes video lectures, case studies, and interactive discussions, providing a well-rounded learning experience. Participants can earn a certificate upon completion, adding value to their professional development.

Pros

  • Focuses on communication skills for leadership
  • Taught by Purdue University faculty
  • Includes case studies and interactive discussions
  • Offers a certificate of completion

Cons

  • May be too specialized for general public speaking needs
  • Requires a commitment to the course schedule

LinkedIn Learning: "Public Speaking Foundations"

Rating:
4/5

This LinkedIn Learning course provides a solid foundation in public speaking skills. It covers essential topics like structuring presentations, using visuals effectively, and managing stage fright. Taught by experienced communication professionals, the course offers practical tips and techniques that can be immediately applied. LinkedIn Learning's platform makes it easy to track your progress and access the course on various devices. This course is ideal for professionals who want to quickly improve their public speaking abilities.

Pros

  • Concise and focused content
  • Taught by experienced professionals
  • Easy to access on LinkedIn Learning platform
  • Practical tips and techniques

Cons

  • May not be as in-depth as other courses
  • Requires a LinkedIn Learning subscription

Toastmasters International: Pathways Learning Experience

Rating:
3.8/5

While not strictly an "online course," Toastmasters' Pathways program offers a structured learning experience that combines online resources with in-person meetings. This program allows you to develop your public speaking and leadership skills at your own pace. The online platform provides access to various learning paths, each focusing on different skill sets. The real value comes from the opportunity to practice your skills in a supportive club environment, receiving constructive feedback from fellow members. It's a great option for those who prefer a blend of online learning and community interaction.

Pros

  • Combines online learning with in-person practice
  • Provides a supportive community environment
  • Offers various learning paths to choose from
  • Focuses on both public speaking and leadership

Cons

  • Requires attending in-person meetings
  • Involves a membership fee