For the student, the first step in choosing the best online Hebrew course is defining one's goals for there's more than one path that can be travelled. Some of these roads include Biblical versus Modern Hebrew, practical Hebrew versus academic Hebrew, and even just simply wanting to learn a few phrases to prepare for a vacation or business trip to Israel. Find out the needed level of sophistication. Figure out what the goals are and then write them down (writing down goals help increase focus).
Next is to start whittling down courses to meet these goals. Studying courses in ancient Biblical Hebrew won't help anyone looking forward to mingling with the locals on a planned trip to Israel. If there is more than one goal involved, there may be multiple learning paths.
For those that hope to eventually learn both Biblical and Modern Hebrew, the best way to start (according to many) would be to learn Modern Hebrew first because it allows the student greater flexibility and is more practical when it comes to interpersonal communication.
And for the average person - it's more fun.
Once it has been decided which type of Hebrew is needed, the issue of choosing a course comes into play. And as far as the right online Hebrew course is concerned, be aware that there are various teaching approaches.
Pro Hebrew
One approach involves learning Hebrew via an online university course. These tend to be fairly intense programs and involve earning credits for a degree of some kind. Classes (and deadlines) will more than likely operate on a strict schedule. Class participation and interaction with professors, instructors and other students is usually expected. If the student needs some sort of online accreditation to qualify for a position that requires knowledge of Hebrew, this option may be the best.
More flexibility exists in commercial for-profit online courses. Even though some of these courses may offer online degrees, the student will have more choices. Students in this situation can usually set their own schedules in this environment.
Jewish community organizations and other Jewish/Israeli groups also offer courses. These groups usually foster a more casual learning environment and are sometimes even free. Students are not graded and self-assessment is usually the rule here.
To help make the decision regarding the best online Hebrew course, a student would be wise to use the help resources that are usually available on course websites. Check out the Q&A pages, and don't be afraid to communicate with them either via email or phone.
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