Online Learning vs. Face-to-Face Learning

An online program is different from a face-to-face program because you do not see anyone face-to-face. You are in a virtual environment and communicate in hyperspace through the Internet. It is possible to have face-to-face contact with your instructor or other class participants if your communication platform includes using a Web cam, video teleconferencing, or a videophone. Otherwise, what is more likely is that your communication platform will include email, texting, telephone, cell phone, instant message, or perhaps telephone software. The teacher and student experience each other distantly. It is a relationship that cannot be fully developed as it would if you were in the same room together studying. Therefore, it requires the student to be proactive in seeking out relationships online by participating in discussion threads, conference calls, online communities, phone calls with mentors. Online learning is learning independently and asynchronously.

In a face-to-face program, the nuances of the teacher's and student's personality can be seen, heard, and felt. The learning is more personal because you are both physically in the same room and you have met one another, at least if the class size is not too large. In-person learning is more social and in that setting we more easily develop friendships. We create a mini community and bond in class together. We are neighbors. We become connected.