Online vs. In-Person Classes: What Are the Differences?

Because you can watch lectures or complete coursework whenever it’s convenient for you, online classes can be more easily worked into your busy schedule.

When your schedule is easier to manage, it leaves more time for your social life, family, friends and personal pursuits. It also leaves room for any important commitments you may have.

Online classes go where you go, so you never have to fight traffic on the way to campus to attend class.

Online classes have the potential to connect you with students from around the country, allowing you to build relationships with individuals outside of your local community.

You may have a difficult time focusing on school when you’re studying remotely. Distractions like the internet, TV, phones and even family members can make it hard to study. In-person classes can be a chance to step away from these distractions and focus solely on learning.

The routine of attending a class at the same time each week can be a helpful way to learn. Being in a classroom environment may also help you focus better to internalize concepts.

While online classes offer plenty of opportunities to connect with professors and classmates, you may prefer to learn face-to-face. In-person learning provides the chance to work directly with your classmates or ask your professor questions in the moment, instead of sending an email or posting a question on the class message board.