Online Professional Development Ideas for Teachers: Free & Paid Options to Level Up Your Skills

As teachers, we’re constantly learning—whether it’s through classroom experiences, student interactions, or keeping up with the latest strategies and tools. But with busy schedules and limited budgets, finding the right professional development (PD) can be tough.

The good news? There are tons of online PD options that can fit your time, interests, and even your wallet. Whether you’re looking to earn certificates, dig into a new teaching approach, or just brush up on your tech tools, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a list of both free and paid online PD ideas to explore this year:


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Free Online PD Options

1. Coursera Free Courses
Platforms like Coursera offer free access to many university-level education courses. You can explore topics like classroom management, assessment, and social-emotional learning (SEL). Some courses offer paid certificates, but many are free to audit.

2. edWeb.net Webinars
Join live or watch recorded webinars on everything from literacy to leadership. You’ll receive a free certificate of completion that may count toward PD hours in your district.

3. PBS TeacherLine (Free Options Available)
PBS offers self-paced learning on topics like literacy, math strategies, and integrating tech into the classroom. While some courses are paid, a number of introductory ones are completely free.

4. Google for Education Training Center
Get Google Certified! Their Level 1 and 2 educator training modules are completely free and a great way to build your digital skills.

5. OpenLearn by Open University
This platform offers hundreds of free courses for educators in areas like education leadership, child development, and teaching strategies.

6. YouTube Channels for Teachers
Professional learning doesn’t always need to be formal. Channels like Cult of Pedagogy, The EdTech Show, or Teacher2Teacher provide practical PD through bite-sized videos.

7. Podcasts for Educators
If you’re a multitasker or like learning on the go, check out podcasts like Truth for Teachers, Teachers Need Teachers, or The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast. Perfect for inspiration on your commute or while doing chores.

8. Twitter/X Education Chats
Participate in live chats using hashtags like #edchat, #teacherpd, or #EduTwitter. These real-time discussions are packed with insight, links, and peer advice.


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Paid Online PD Options

9. Teachers Pay Teachers University
Learn from other teachers! TpT University offers affordable self-paced courses on topics like inclusive classrooms, student engagement, and digital tools.

10. Teach Better Academy
If you’re looking for deep-dive courses into mastery learning or engagement strategies, this is a great option. Offers both individual courses and bundled memberships.

11. The Modern Classrooms Project
Looking to revamp your teaching style? This program (offered in free and paid versions) helps educators implement self-paced, blended, and mastery-based learning models. Paid options include personalized mentorship.

12. Skillshare or Udemy Courses
These platforms offer thousands of short courses—from Google Slides tricks to creative ways to use Canva in the classroom. Prices vary, but sales often make courses very affordable.

13. Virtual Summits & Book Clubs
Events like the Educator’s Virtual Summit or paid book clubs with authors offer a chance to learn and network at the same time. Many offer PD hours and practical takeaways.

14. National Board Certification (NBC)
This rigorous PD path is a paid investment but is often supported by grants or district funding. It’s a great option for long-term professional growth.

15. Micro-Credentials & Graduate Courses
Looking for formal credits? Explore programs from organizations like BloomBoard, Digital Promise, or even your local universities. These are often stackable and can count toward your salary grid.


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Final Thoughts

Professional development doesn’t have to be boring—or expensive! Whether you’re investing your time, your money, or both, there are so many ways to grow your skills and reignite your passion for teaching.

From bite-sized podcasts to full certification programs, the key is to find PD that aligns with your goals and keeps you feeling inspired and supported.

What PD are you planning this year? Let me know in the comments or tag me on social!

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