Free Classes & Courses at iTunes U - iPad, iPhone, iPod touch

Apple Expands Educational Resources with iTunes U

During a recent product launch event held at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, where Apple unveiled its new iBooks Author application, the company simultaneously announced an updated educational offering: iTunes U.

Evolution of iTunes Educational Content

For a number of years, higher education institutions have freely distributed academic lectures through iTunes podcasts. Apple is now significantly broadening this service with iTunes U, granting access to comprehensive courses originating from prominent universities and various other educational establishments.

This expansion allows students to engage with full course materials directly within the iTunes ecosystem.

Accessibility and Cost

Currently, all courses available through iTunes U are offered at no cost to users. The primary investment required is the dedication of time to complete the lectures and associated coursework.

This provides a valuable opportunity for self-paced learning and access to university-level content.

Key Features of iTunes U

• Access to complete courses from leading institutions.
• Free of charge – only time commitment is needed.
• Delivered through the familiar iTunes platform.

The iTunes U Application

The iTunes U app is compatible with your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. Upon enrollment in a course, the essential course materials will be automatically downloaded directly to the application on your device.

Downloadable links to supplementary resources are also provided, accessible through the App Store, the iBookstore, and the iTunes Music Store. While some supplemental content may require purchase, the majority of video lectures and PDF handouts are generally available at no cost.

Core Material Organization

A key advantage of iTunes U lies in its ability to consolidate core learning materials within a single application. A course download typically encompasses a concise overview, a comprehensive lecture and assignment schedule, an integrated Notepad feature, and direct links to relevant course resources.

The application’s interface and organizational structure closely resemble the familiar layout of a traditional, physical three-ring binder.

Device Synchronization and Limitations

Although the optimal viewing experience is achieved on the iPad, your notes and course data can be synchronized across your various iOS devices. However, it’s important to note that Apple has not yet developed a dedicated Mac client for iTunes U.

Similarly, a Mac client has not been created for the iBooks 2 textbook reader.

Accessing Courses and Available Content

All courses within iTunes U can be accessed and viewed either through the dedicated iTunes U application itself, or via iTunes on your Mac or PC.

Currently, iTunes U features a diverse selection of courses—spanning subjects such as Basics of Culinary Arts, Introductory Chinese, Masters of Photography, and the highly acclaimed iPad and iPhone App Development course from Stanford University.

Stanford CS193p

Stanford's course on application development, CS193p, comprises 19 genuine, recorded lectures. These are accompanied by slideshow presentations and practical, in-course assignments.

Notably, this course doesn't necessitate the acquisition of any supplementary materials.

Accessibility and Requirements

For users operating on OS X Lion, Apple’s integrated development environment, Xcode, is available for complimentary download via the App Store.

The primary investment required from prospective students is simply their dedicated time and effort.

Xcode provides all the necessary tools for development.

The course structure is designed to be self-contained and accessible.

This allows learners to focus entirely on mastering the concepts presented.

The combination of lectures, presentations, and assignments fosters a comprehensive learning experience.

Students can progress at their own pace, utilizing the provided resources effectively.

The course emphasizes practical application, ensuring students gain hands-on experience.

This approach prepares them for real-world app development challenges.

Ultimately, CS193p offers a valuable opportunity to learn app development from a leading institution.

It does so without imposing significant financial burdens on participants.

Understanding Copyright and Creative Use

A noteworthy, yet concise, educational resource called "Rights, Remixes, and Respect" offers a five-part exploration of the distinctions between creative influence, cultural appropriation, copyright law, and fair use principles.

Course Overview

Developed by Kirby Ferguson, this course delivers clear definitions of key copyright terminology. It then illustrates these concepts with compelling examples drawn from music and film, specifically focusing on sampling, remixing, and broader creative endeavors.

The course materials are presented as video lectures, accessible through a dedicated website. This eliminates the need for users to download files directly to their devices, enhancing convenience.

Course Structure and Requirements

Completion of the course can be achieved within a week, and it incorporates brief quizzes to reinforce learning.

It's important to note that the course does involve a small cost, requiring the purchase of a few songs from the iTunes Music Store as part of the learning experience.

Key Takeaways

• The course clarifies the nuances of copyright and fair use.
• It provides practical examples of sampling and remixing in creative works.
• Access to course materials is streamlined through a web-based platform.

Notepad Functionality within iTunes U

The iTunes U application incorporates a readily accessible and functional notepad feature. This integrated tool proves particularly beneficial for users who prefer to conduct the majority of their work directly on their mobile devices.

Its operation closely mirrors that of the standard Notepad application found on Apple’s iOS devices, offering a familiar experience.

A Valuable Learning Resource

Although iTunes U may not achieve the same widespread recognition as the iTunes Music Store or the App Store, it represents a significant opportunity and resource for individuals pursuing self-directed education.

A key advantage of iTunes U is the availability of courses at no cost, allowing learners to expand their knowledge without incurring tuition fees or student loan debt.

We encourage you to share your experiences and opinions regarding the iTunes U platform.