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The difference between classroom and online training

The difference between classroom and online training

A lot of people ask us what the difference is between classroom and online training courses. The decision between one type or the other depends on your learning style, availability for travelling and overall professional interests and commitments such as work or family.

Online learning is becoming more popular and taking the world by storm. Due to the impact of the internet, more and more people are choosing to leave classrooms behind and take their courses online.

To know the best option for you, it is important to understand the differences.

What is classroom training?

In a traditional classroom, students can directly share their views and clarify their queries with the trainer, thus getting their questions answered right away.

This is an excellent option for those who have more time to attend a classroom course and those who benefit more from face-to-face interaction and discussions with their trainer and other course attendees. Being in the classroom and engaging with others can help with the learning process, which is something online classes doesn’t offer.


When there is a human, practical element to a course, there is more engagement compared to just reading notes. This, therefore, provides the learners with a chance to receive feedback from the teacher or instructor. Classroom learning offers a more hands-on experience. With more ways to interact with the subject matter, students can have a deeper understanding and longer-lasting retention of the material.

What is online training?

Most online courses allow the participants to set their own pace and choose their learning time freely. However, you must have a laptop and wifi to complete the course.

Many students appreciate the ability to work around their schedules, ensuring that they have a work/life/study balance that works for them. An online class allows them to fit learning in between their day jobs and home life, so they can continue earning money while studying.

You can stop and start when you want to and review material during the course and even after. Whether you’re studying on your lunch break, at your child’s dance class, or lounging on a beach abroad, online courses also allow you to learn from anywhere.


Another benefit to online courses is the ability to review information whenever needed. It allows students to remind themselves of information that they would typically forget after a classroom course. Workers who can review training content benefit mainly as it is likely that they will need to look back at skills they may have learned in training once they are actually on the job. This reduces the errors they make on the job and improves quality, therefore improving their motivation and the business as a whole.

It is important to note that one minute of classroom time does not equal one minute of online training. Typically, an online course can take anywhere from 40 to 75% less time than a classroom course. However, the course itself will typically span over a longer period.

Some learners will also benefit from the anonymity of not being physically present in a classroom. Those who are anxious to raise questions or take part in discussions may often feel more confident when they know other members can’t see them.

Ultimately, the decision between online or classroom is down to the individual, and their learning preferences. But, some courses can not be completed online, due to the practical nature of the course or final assessment.

You can find out more, here: https://www.flagshippartners.co.uk/courses/