Distance Learning vs. In-Person Learning: The Main Differences

The number of distance learning courses on offer is growing. Several sectors of education are taking advantage of this method, from technical education to postgraduate courses, as well as various free and short courses.

Complemented by certificates of completion, courses like these become very attractive for those who want to improve their academic record.

Not only are the offerings growing, but so is the demand for this type of teaching. After all, with the emergence of increasingly easy and intuitive AVA (virtual learning environment) platforms, the process of developing autonomy in learning becomes simpler.

However, there are those who do not give up traditional education, focused on the in-person format. This modality is part of the educational journey of individuals, especially because studies in basic education are still offered in the mandatory in-person format, with the exception of the pandemic period.

Furthermore, certain courses with practical teaching, such as medicine, require greater attention from students, making it necessary to maintain face-to-face teaching.

There are constant discussions about these different modalities and, in today's text, we will address the main differences between distance learning and in-person education, their quality and the importance of each modality.

We will help you understand what you need to consider before choosing which course to take. Here you will find out:

• In-person teaching
• Distance learning
• Main differences between the modalities
• Skills development through distance learning

In-person teaching

First of all, we need to make it clear that both modalities are recognized by the Ministry of Education (MEC), and there is no difference between the diploma for in-person education and distance learning. Regarding the workload, the Law of Guidelines and Bases of Education requires that both modalities have the same duration.

With this in mind, let’s better understand how face-to-face teaching works.

This is the oldest and most traditional teaching method. All course content is presented in the classroom, whether at school or another educational institution, where students and teachers meet in person for all classes.

The schedules follow the calendar and respect the shift, which can be morning, afternoon or evening. Another point of face-to-face teaching is that the student must have at least 75% attendance in classes, counted by attendance in class, to be approved, in addition to having a grade in the institution's average.

Distance Learning

The main characteristic of Distance Learning (EAD) is flexibility, that is, the student can attend classes whenever and wherever they can, as long as they have a device compatible with the institution's system and are connected to the internet.

This is a very common option among people who have a busy schedule but don't want to stop updating themselves for the job market.

Another point considered an advantage of distance learning is related to financial savings, as distance learning courses are usually cheaper than face-to-face courses.

In addition to the lower monthly fee, the student saves on travel and food, as he or she does not need to be physically present at the institution.

Main differences between the modalities

As we mentioned previously, the main difference between in-person and distance learning is in relation to class times, as in-person requires a greater commitment from the student to the schedules, while distance learning allows for a time flexibility and space for the student, who can attend classes from anywhere and at any time.

Another much-discussed difference is regarding the assessments. In-person assessments are carried out in a traditional manner, in a classroom and under the supervision of a teacher, with a set time limit for completing the test.

In this format, there are also activities established by the teacher, which can be in groups or individually.

In EAD, some institutions have an in-person center for carrying out assessments, where the student needs to go to the university on the date of the assessment in order to take it.

However, most activities are done online, in the Institution's Virtual Environment. The completion time for the activity is also predetermined.

In-person courses provide a greater interactivity and exchange of experiences with other students, due to almost daily contact with other colleagues, causing them to create bonds.

Something that rarely happens in distance learning, as the number of meetings with the rest of the students in the class is very limited.

Both options offer advantages and disadvantages for the student. To choose which option to follow, it is necessary to carry out an analysis to see which one fits best.

It is a mistake to believe that teaching through virtual platforms is easier. A virtual class requires as much as a face-to-face class.

Because the face-to-face modality has been established in most people's lives since early childhood, we are used to waiting for the teacher's material, to spending most of the time listening to explanations, through passive teaching focused on the teacher.

When students are faced with platforms that require effort, self-teaching and leadership, they realize how much they need to evolve.

It is necessary to develop skills and abilities in this education process.

Skills development through distance learning

There are many skills required to use digital platforms for distance learning. Students who wish to incorporate this modality into their careers must be willing to learn independently.

Believing in your potential, being flexible and reinventing yourself whenever necessary. Organization and discipline are fundamental characteristics for those who want this modality.

Both types of education are important and have their own characteristics. Each person needs to look at themselves and their routine and decide which is the best option. Both formats will continue to coexist and work together for a long time, aiming to improve education and reach more and more people.

Technology will increasingly bring alternatives to the traditional training process as we know it, focusing on innovative solutions, especially in teaching platforms.

Solutions that can even be used in face-to-face teaching as a complement.

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Nathalia Silva September 13, 2021