Desire for interaction

If you are the type of person that enjoys lively discussions and group interaction, taking courses at a local college or university might be a better fit for you. You will have the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds, learn new things and take part in clubs and other social events. If you are more introverted, you might enjoy learning online and communicating with your peers and professors virtually.

Flexibility

Online classes offer you the possibility of learning while being in the convenience of your own home. That means you can still fulfill your regular responsibilities; be it going to work, or taking care of your children. You then have the flexibility of taking classes online during your spare time. Attending classes in person will require you to take a block of time out of your schedule to sit in class and learn. This may not be feasible if you are working full time. Many colleges are offering more convenient classes that can be taken in the evening or weekends with the realization that people have other commitments and may not be available to take classes during the day.

Learning preference

Are you the type of person that learns better at your own pace or do you appreciate having someone else give you direction? Taking classes online will require you to be self motivated and create a schedule for yourself. No one will be there to remind you to finish an assignment or to study for an upcoming exam. You will be accountable for completing your own work on your own schedule. Taking classes in person is more structured, with the professor handing you a syllabus on the first day outlining the coursework for an entire semester.

Individual attention

Depending on the courses you take, the amount of students in each class will vary. Some classes have about 30 students, while lecture halls may have 200 students. In smaller classes, you will have the instant gratification of approaching your professor after class and having your questions answered immediately. However, it may be more difficult for you to get assistance in larger classes where there is an imbalance between the student and faculty ratio. Taking classes online will allow you to communicate with your professor via email and articulate questions that you may have. Online professors may be able to provide you with more attention since there are fewer students, and email is accessible all hours of the day.

Age

Online classes may be more ideal if you are more mature and feel apprehensive about being surrounded in a classroom with 18 year olds. However, if you are open to new experiences, you may discover that there is much to learn from people of different age groups.

Cost

Aside from paying for tuition, consider the additional costs that will go into the equation when taking classes in person. Books, meals, transportation, and if you have children, add daycare expenses. If you are experiencing financial hardship, you might consider taking classes online where you can save on some of these expenses.

Technology savvy

Online classes will require a certain degree of technology savvy. If you have trouble turning on the computer yourself or differentiating between a keyboard and printer, online classes might not be the best option for you. All assignments, exams, and coursework will be transmitted to you via the internet. Correspondence with your professors will be through the exchange of emails. If you don’t feel comfortable with the internet, taking traditional classes may be a better option for you.