In-Person vs. Online English Learning for Children

Top Teachers Share Insights on In-Person vs. Online English Learning for Children.

Author: Amy Holland
Date: 26/09/2024

Making informed decisions for your child’s education is vital to their future success. That is why we have approached top English teachers at Meridian School of English with experience in both in-person and online classroom settings.

Their valuable insights have offered up a practical comparison to guide you toward the most informed decision for the development of your child’s English skills.

As a parent, you may be wondering, “What are the main differences between teaching face-to-face and online English lessons to children and how will it affect the learning progress?” In this article, our educators compare how each environment impacts student engagement, comprehension, and overall learning outcomes.

Online Learning vs. In-Person Classes – What’s Better?

As educators, we are often asked, “Is online training better than in-person?” To be fair, we have found that both approaches have significant benefits, each tailored to the different needs young learners may have.

Here’s what studies have to say…

Research on the effectiveness of distance learning has revealed that in some instances, online students performed slightly better in exams and received higher grades compared to those in traditional classroom settings. However, the average performance outcomes between the two groups differed only slightly.

The study also highlighted that foreign language learners who interacted with native speakers significantly improved their language proficiency. Online schools are excellent platforms for students and native speakers to connect across different countries.

What is The Difference Between In-Person and Online Distance Learning?

Let’s dive into what sets online learning apart and places it in a league of its own!

Virtual classrooms are highly accessible for young learners.

Online education is a wonderful convenience for children who may not be able to attend in-person English lessons, or who simply don’t have access to trained and experienced English teachers. With the help of these lessons, young students can improve their English proficiency online from anywhere in the world!

Furthermore, they have the freedom to learn at times that best suit their individual needs. You may also find online English lessons to be the ideal solution for your child if you’re a single parent or have a busy schedule.

Online classes offer self-paced learning and schedule flexibility.

Children who thrive outside the rigid structure of in-person classrooms will enjoy the flexibility of online learning. Understandably, every child learns at a different pace, and these classes are often highly accommodating, allowing students to create their own schedules.

Online learning can be more cost-effective than in-person learning.

Traditional schooling environments often come with higher costs due to expenses like transportation and school supplies. Many families find online learning to be the most cost-effective solution to expanding their child’s education.

Not only is it an affordable solution, but it is also convenient for your child to learn from the comfort of your home.

How Does Online Learning Compare to The Traditional Classroom Setting?

Our top teachers touch on some of the main highlights of in-person classes.

In-person classes allow for discussions to take place naturally.

Many educators find it a lot easier to actively engage children in discussions when they are all physically present in a classroom as the interactions flow naturally and the environment is easier to control. When teachers spark enthusiasm in their young learners in the physical classrooms, other young learners may feel naturally inclined to want to partake in the learning process.

In-person classes allow children to collaborate easily.

In-person classes may encourage a stronger sense of community-building. Conversations and interactions are spontaneous in the traditional setting, creating a collaborative problem-solving environment.

Social connections are also easier in a traditional classroom which leads to young learners feeling more comfortable and less isolated. That said, we have noticed that friendships do grow between young online learners, with many logging on early to catch up with their classmates.

Young children get distracted less in an in-person classroom setting.

Young learners often find a physical classroom setting to be less distracting. Many online schools for young children have compensated for this by keeping classes as short as possible so that lessons are fun and highly engaging.

However, it is worth stating that physical classrooms provide a structured space where your child may feel less distracted and more likely to remain engaged with the lesson. Having a teacher and peers in the physical environment helps retain attention, creating a more disciplined learning atmosphere.

Top Tip – Help your child stay focused during online English lessons!

Preparing them 10 minutes in advance can greatly improve their level of attention and engagement. Remember to create a quiet home atmosphere conducive to learning.

Choosing the Right English Learning Path for Your Child.

Both in-person and online English learning may offer unique advantages and challenges for your child. In-person classes foster immediate interaction, spontaneous discussion, and a sense of community that can significantly boost a child’s social and emotional development. The structured environment of a physical classroom can also minimise distractions, helping children stay focused and engaged.

Alternatively, online learning provides a wonderful sense of flexibility, making it a highly accessible option for many families. Connecting with native English-speaking teachers from around the world and accessing a wide range of digital resources offers a unique learning experience that caters to your child’s learning style, while also allowing your child to learn at their own pace.

The choice between in-person and online English lessons ultimately depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each child and family.

At Meridian School of English, we are committed to providing high-quality education that leverages the strengths of online learning while addressing its challenges with our tried and trusted method.

By being aware of and remaining adaptable to the needs of our students, we strive to create an engaging and effective learning environment that helps every child succeed.