Rachel Schapira

Mr. Harbron

Composition

1/2/23

Virtual vs. In-person classes

Most students have taken in-person and online classes, but many have a learning

preference. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, online classes were less common. However, over

the last few years they’ve become increasingly popular. Now, most universities, high schools and

even lower education institutions offer online courses. Virtual school and in-person school differ

in several ways. Virtual school offers students the flexibility to learn at their own pace, from

anywhere, and with a wide course selection. In-person school offers students the opportunity to

learn in a traditional classroom setting, with classmates and teachers, and with set schedules.

Even though in-person and virtual education are both efficient ways of learning, there are many

differences in how they are structured, meaning that each method may better suit some

students than others depending on their preferred learning styles, flexibility and social

interactions.

Virtual and in-person courses are taught differently and may offer unique resources to

students. Traditional schools teach from a set curriculum and instructors are there for assistance

as needed. These courses are active and involved, and require engagement from the student.

This allows students to be held accountable for their work and easily access help if needed.

Virtual schooling can make it easier for students to access courses not offered in their local

schools due to the wider course selection. Oftentimes, online classes offer more resources to
further expand on lessons, as well. In addition, content can be reviewed more easily because it

is all in one place. Both online and in-person courses may provide learners with various

materials and differ in their methods of instruction.

The scheduling and timeline of in-person and virtual classes are very dissimilar.

In-person learning allows students to be present, taking an active role in their learning. Students

have to be present at a certain time on a regular basis, creating a more structured experience

and ensuring they stay on track. Virtual school can be ideal for students who need more

flexibility as it can provide an environment that allows students to learn on their own schedule.

Most virtual schedules allow students to move at their own pace and when it's most convenient

to them. This allows them the ability to pursue other interests and still get an education. Online

and in-person classes have great variation in their agendas and schedules, offering

opportunities that suit each students’ needs.

When it comes to collaborative learning and socialization, virtual and in-person classes

differ significantly. In-person learning allows for collaboration among peers and increases one’s

social abilities. Students can frequently socialize with one another, which is important for young

minds to develop their key social skills. They are often surrounded by peers that are similar to

them, which is a healthy environment for them to be in. Aside from online discussion boards,

virtual classes do not allow for much social interaction among students. Students do not get to

know their classmates as well in virtual courses. This can be isolating and increase feelings of

loneliness. The interactive learning and interpersonal environments of virtual and in-person

courses are considerably different.

 Virtual school and in-person school offer different experiences for students. Each

method offers students the opportunity to learn, but each type of school can provide unique

benefits and challenges. They are both effective ways to learn, but due to various changes in

how they are set up, certain students may respond more favorably to one technique than the

other based on their preferred learning styles, flexibility, and social interactions. Depending on

their preferences and needs, a student may select one option over the other.
 Works Cited

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Programs, 23 Feb. 2022,

https://online.utsa.edu/blog-content/pros-and-cons-online-vs-in-person-classes/.

Education, iN. “Virtual Learning versus in-Person: What Are the Pros and Cons? - in

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https://ineducationonline.org/2021/02/12/virtual-learning-versus-in-person-what-are-the-pros-an

d-cons-2/.

Rakoczy, Christy. “In-Person School, Online Learning, or Home Schooling-Which Is Right for

You?” The Balance, The Balance, 17 Jan. 2022,

https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-to-choose-between-in-person-school-online-learning-an

d-home-school-5083375.

Team, Yellowdig. “In-Person vs. Online Learning - Pros & Cons of Each.” Yellowdig,

Yellowdig, 24 June 2022,

https://www.yellowdig.co/post/in-person-vs-online-learning-can-they-compare#:~:text=What%20i

s%20the%20difference%20between,face%20classes%20at%20allotted%20times.

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Sept. 2022,

https://www.nu.edu/blog/weighing-the-pros-and-cons-of-online-vs-in-person-learning/.