Online or In-Person? Choosing the Best Course Meeting Style for You
When choosing courses for the upcoming semester, know which version of the course meeting is best for you. Most universities offer multiple ways to take courses, whether in person (also known as face-to-face) or online - when all class meetings and assignments are 100 percent virtual.
By Kennae Hunter — August 30, 2022
When choosing courses for the upcoming semester, know which version of the course meeting is best for you. Most universities offer multiple ways to take courses, whether in person (also known as face-to-face) or online—when all class meetings and assignments are 100 percent virtual.
Students have to pick the method of classes best for them. The Covid-19 pandemic allowed some students to get used to online learning who had never tried it before, while others struggled with adjustment. Some subjects are easier to understand in person, while others are more convenient virtually. Some courses, known as hybrid, are 50 percent ] in-person and 50 percent online. Both online and face-to-face courses have pros and cons, and choosing the best subjects at the right time matters in your course selection. Here are some tips I wish I had known when I scheduled my classes.
PROS: IN-PERSON COURSES
Focus Without Distractions
Classrooms are meant for learning, setting the purpose of why you are there. You go to class to listen to your lecture and complete assignments, so you are less likely to be distracted by off-topic activities if you were not in the traditional classroom setting. Many professors have policies restricting cell phone usage, holding students accountable for attendance, and expecting undivided attention while speaking. This contributes to a focused learning environment that ensures the student gains as much knowledge as possible.
Verbal Lectures and Classroom Discussion
Students will have easier and more convenient access to their professors and peers, which means they can ask questions on the spot, converse about the material and listen to the lectures versus reading a lot of notes. This engagement allows for better course performance and makes it easier to overcome difficult areas within the course. Classroom discussion will enable you to think about the material differently. You can also self-assess whether you are on the same page as your peers.
Opportunity to Network and Make Friends
By default, while attending class, you will have the chance to meet and be surrounded by people with similar goals and ideas. Establishing friendships and networking between future colleagues as well. Students travel from all over the world to attend your university. You never know what connection you can make just from speaking with classmates. Bonding over studying or partnering for a project creates connections that may not otherwise happen.
CONS: IN-PERSON COURSES
Not Flexible with Schedule
In-person classes have a set schedule and times that do not change, even if unforeseen circumstances appear in your life. When signing up for these courses, you commit to a semester's worth of class meetings. Anything can occur, causing a student to miss class or not attend anymore. Not having the flexibility to do so can hurt a student's performance.
Increased Costs
Courses on campus are more expensive. There are more fees to be paid in tuition when students take in— person courses. In addition to education, the costs of traveling to and from classes, grabbing lunch or snacks, and maintaining an acceptable appearance all contribute to increased spending.
Less Time for Individualized Student Support and Learning
Professors have to utilize the time allotted for class in a way that benefits the entire group. During class, there is not enough time to spend thirty minutes explaining one student's question or editing an essay before submission. Students also have different learning styles, but it is difficult for a professor to cater to everyone's individual needs in one lecture.
PROS: ONLINE COURSES
More Convenience
Students can complete online courses from anywhere with wifi access—completing classes while on the go is helpful for students involved in campus activities that may have meetings or a job to do during the day. The class is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, leaving no excuse for not attending except simply not logging in. Books and other course materials are more likely to be digital, so there are no heavy supplies to carry around.
Self-Paced Learning
You can complete assignments whenever you want before the deadline. Students can choose to spend two days watching a one-hour lecture or complete two weeks of classwork in one sitting. Students can spend as much time as they need on one topic without the pressure of someone else's pace affecting them. Having the ability to do schoolwork when you feel most motivated rather than at a set time can promote higher academic success.
Flexibility
Students are more likely to work full-time or hold internships because of the flexibility associated with online courses. Sometimes students cannot afford to miss work or take time away while studying. Having the option to work and earn a degree opens more opportunities for you as a student. You do not have to relocate or live near the university. A student can continue to pursue any of their dreams while still earning their degree.
CONS: ONLINE COURSES
Prone to Technical Issues
The common downside to anything digital-based is that technology can always fail. Electronics can break or malfunction, documents accidentally delete, or the power can go out. Any technical issue can disrupt the course, especially if it takes a long to resolve the problem. It is helpful to have a backup plan in case of a technical issue.
Requires More Self-Discipline
Online courses allow room for procrastination to take place. You must prioritize your studies and take accountability for your responsibilities as a student. These courses can help develop better time management skills since balancing school, and personal life will be necessary. It is essential to know when to say 'no' to hanging with friends when you know you have assignments due.
Can Create a Sense of Isolation
Since there are no class meetings unless you get out and socialize, never interacting with anyone create loneliness. Even if you are not a people person, in-person classes give you an excuse to hold a real conversation with someone. When feeling isolated, try completing assignments in new locations such as a coffee shop or a library.
Knowing When to Pick Each Meeting Style
It is best to take in-person classes when the course's subject matter is a more complex topic or your least favorite. Accept when you need more help or could benefit from interacting with other humans in real life if you do not have many other time commitments and can dedicate the necessary time required to succeed. Online courses are best if you are disciplined and well versed in a subject. If it is your best subject and you easily understand, it is convenient to take the course online. If you work, have kids, or have other obligations, online could be the best route to have flexibility in your scheduling.
Ultimately, you choose the course style that is best for you. When in doubt, you can always consult with the professors and advisors to better understand the course expectations.
Kennae Hunter
Kennae Hunter is a freelance writer for SAGE Scholars, Inc. She recently graduated college one year ago with her bachelor’s degree in mass communications and is following her dreams of being a reporter. Hunter has a passion for writing and does so in her free time along with reading a variety of genres of books. She hopes to inform the community on all things about college to make their experience just as enjoyable as hers.
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