Online or in-class learning? Which is best for you?

If you are looking at college programs, terms such as "blended classes," and "online learning" can sometimes be confusing. In this video, Connor explains how these offerings differ from the traditional "in-class"  learning experience. 

Video transcription 

Hey, it’s Connor. If you’re looking at college programs, you’ve probably come across terms like ‘blended classes,’ ‘online’ classes, as well as the standard “in-class” learning experience. These terms are a little confusing and students don’t really know what they’re getting into when registering for a class. So I’ve put together this quick video to explain the differences and the benefits of each. 

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom with a professor anymore. Think about it: you can collaborate online with classmates, watch videos to supplement a lecture, and respond to course work online late at night in your bed. You’ve got so much flexibility in how you complete college courses - even studying completely online. So, what’s the difference between in-class, online and blended learning and which one’s right for you?

In-class Learning

Let’s start with the easy one. The in-class experience is the traditional one that you’ve come to expect. At college, this can take on many forms like labs, clinical training, lectures, and workshops so you can hit the ground running in your career. This is a great option if you thrive on working with other students and your professor, and want a hands on learning experience.

Online Learning

Do you have a busy lifestyle or love to work on school projects in your pajamas? With online learning, you don’t have to enter a classroom. This means you're able to check on your assignments, communicate with teachers and interact with other students any time of the day or night. 

In an online class, you have access to forums and message boards where you can interact with the teacher and the other students. However, online classes require that you have some discipline. You have the ability to see your assignments virtually but your professor isn’t there to remind you every week about upcoming assignments and due dates. 

Blended Learning 

Blended learning brings together the best of both worlds, with 30 to 80 percent of the course content delivered online with some face-to-face interaction. With both online and in-class experiences, you have the ability to complete course work anywhere with an internet connection plus you get the benefits of having face-to-face time with your professor and opportunities to meet your classmates in person.

What’s best for you?

So the choice between blended education, in-class, and virtual learning will all depend on how you learn.. So there is no wrong decision.

At Fanshawe College, many of our programs offer online and blended courses. Check out our programs now that you know the pros and cons of all the class styles.