Rajesh Tamada
Because of the pandemic, educational institutions have been forced to adopt digital modes of teaching. The methods of learning have changed greatly in recent years. From a classroom setting where all students learn at the same place, various courses are now done online where students from any remote location can join the classes.
If you’re wondering which is a better way of learning, then keep reading as we explain more about online and in-person learning.
Understanding Online Learning
Online learning or remote learning is learning over the Internet. It can either be live classes or recorded lessons.
Pros of Online Learning
In the following lines, we are going to cover these aspects in their entirety and learn more about them.
Global Learning
Online learning can be done from anywhere and doesn’t require learners to be in the same location. This means that learners from all across the world can join any course that is taught through online learning.
Flexibility
If the learning is through pre-recorded lessons, then learners get the flexibility of setting their own schedules and learning at their convenience. Even if the classes are live, online learning is more flexible as you can attend the class from any location or on the go.
Cost-effectiveness
Online education is much cheaper as it has very little overhead costs. Some platforms even offer free online learning to attract students. They extend this offer mostly because it doesn’t take much investment to make online courses.
Cons of Online Learning
In the following lines, we are going to cover these aspects in their entirety and learn more about them.
Technical issues and internet connectivity
Online learning requires compatible devices and a strong internet connection. This means that it cannot be done at remote locations with bad connections. There is also a risk of technical problems interfering with the learning that can lead the students to miss out on the class.
Self-motivation
With freedom and flexibility comes procrastination. Online learning requires a little bit of extra self-motivation and you need to have a routine with dedicated time for the courses.
Understanding In-Person Learning
In-person learning is just your typical classroom learning. This means that all the learners are present at the same place for classes.
Pros of In-Person Learning
In the following lines, we are going to cover these aspects in their entirety and learn more about them.
No Distractions
The classroom environment facilitates focused learning which can help with better understanding. There are minimum distractions and you can retain more knowledge from the class.
Good academic experience
In-person learning is more practical and hands-on which creates a good experience for learners. Many learners prefer being face to face with their teacher and feel more comfortable asking doubts in person.
Cons of In-Person Learning
In the following lines, we are going to cover these aspects in their entirety and learn more about them.
Lack of flexibility
It doesn’t offer any choice for learners about when or where the class happens. This means that learners need to work as per the schedule of the institution and be present for the class. It can sometimes make it difficult to attend classes because of clashes with other important things.
Time wasted to commute
In-person learning requires all learners to be in the same place. This means that many learners may have to travel long distances to attend the class.
Final thoughts
There are pros and cons to both types of learning. This makes it difficult to decide which is better. Online learning is better for learners who need the convenience of remote learning and are self-motivated. Whereas, in-person learning is best for learners who learn better in distraction-free environments and want to experience an institution and the course.
