Do you want to learn English but feel there is not enough time in your packed working schedule? Every professional has their own pace and their own needs, especially when it comes to picking up a second language or brushing one up. Discover the pros and cons of online and in-person classes and decide which suits your lifestyle best.

In today’s globalised world, mastering English is not just a competitive advantage but almost a necessity if you want to move up in many professional fields. Speaking English opens up a wide range of job opportunities at home and abroad, making communication easier, widening professional networks and opening the door to new markets.

A common dilemma arises, however: where do you find the time to attend classes and learn a language efficiently? Against that backdrop, online language classes have grown in popularity because they offer flexible hours and convenience. In-person classes, though, still have their followers thanks to the direct, personal interaction they provide.

In this article we take a close look at the advantages and disadvantages of both formats to help you decide which is the better option for your needs.

Advantages and disadvantages of online and in-person classes

Format	Advantages	Disadvantages
Online	– Flexible timetable. – Saves time and travel costs. – Unlimited access to multimedia materials and recordings. – Lets you study from anywhere. – A chance to set your own learning pace.	– Less personal, direct interaction with the teacher. – Possible distractions at home. – Dependence on technology and an internet connection. – Less group motivation when studying alone.
In person	– A chance to set your own learning pace. – Direct, ongoing interaction with teachers and classmates. – Questions answered on the spot and constant feedback. – An environment that encourages motivation and discipline. – Helps develop face-to-face communication skills. – Greater commitment thanks to the structure of in-person courses.	– Risk of procrastination because of the complete freedom. – Fixed timetables, hard to adapt to sudden changes. – Additional travel costs and commuting time. – Less flexibility to catch up on missed classes. – Possible overcrowding in large groups. – Less accessible for professionals with complicated schedules.

What the research says about learning languages

First, a study published in Taylor & Francis Online (2022) showed that in-person learners made significantly greater knowledge gains in the post-test than online learners.

On the other hand, research suggests that a balanced approach combining the advantages of virtual and in-person classes can lead to a more effective and complete learning experience.

Meanwhile, according to an article by Nos Langues (2024), studying languages online demands far more self-discipline than doing so in person, since nobody is checking your attendance or reviewing your progress directly. That is why having someone to motivate you and keep you committed can make the difference between persevering and giving up on your language goals.

Ultimately, choosing between online and in-person language classes depends on your personal preferences, your learning style and, above all, your availability. Online classes may be ideal if you are after convenience and flexibility, while in-person classes could suit you better if you need constant, personalised interaction.

If you would like to look further into effective methods for learning English, we recommend our blog post on “Learning languages from scratch as an adult: myths and realities”. And if you are considering learning English with free apps, do read our article “Can you learn a language with free apps? The pros and cons of the most popular ones“.

Remember that whichever format you choose, consistency and commitment are key to successful learning. English is a tool that can genuinely mark a turning point in your professional career. At Alos we give you the push you need: discover the smartest way to learn English today. Stop putting it off — your future is waiting!

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