Online or face-to-face learning for kids? (Boys and girls, let’s begin!)
As adults, we know that learning something new (that’s within our interest) is incredibly fun. Children are certainly no different as they’re hungry for something fun, engaging and geared to their interests.
The most common question I find is: “Which is better, learning online or face-to-face?”
Firstly, let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both.
Learning Online
Children can certainly learn a new craft or skill through online classes and lessons, whether its via online video applications such as Zoom, Skype, Google Meets etc, or through pre-recorded classes hosted on online learning platforms, such as Udemy, Skillshare, or private websites.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of learning online?
Advantages
Online classes are super convenient for large families with children as it can essentially fit around everyone’s schedule
Children get to learn in a comfortable, safe and familiar environment
Minimal costs are involved such as travelling, eating out etc. which tends to be costly if you have more than one child.
Online classes tend to be a lot cheaper too which is great for families on a budget
Some teachers can also post equipment out to you, giving you less work to do.
As a parent, ideally you’d be able to relax, take a break or get on with work whilst your children are learning online (although some children may need some supervision)
Fancy a new craft for your child? We have child-friendly hand embellishment classes online. Find out more.
Disadvantages
Children can’t ask for help from the teacher in a way that they normally would if it was face-to-face, which gives the parent the role to help out when needed.
You’ll have to supervise your child if they’re quite young
Your children may get stuck and it may be hard for the teacher to show instructions clearly from the screen
The internet connection could have issues throughout the online session, leaving the child frustrated and disengaged
Children need some self-motivation to turn up from the comfort of their home, usually leaving it to the parent to give some words of encouragement.
If children can’t complete a task, they may get disengaged quite quickly here too
You’ve noticed that although there may be obstacles to learning effectively online, there are also great advantages too. Children have unique abilities and learning styles and learning online through a screen may suit a particular child to the T, especially if they’re tech savvy and love technology. Some children also prefer a bit of independence and like to work things out themselves, making the entire learning process pleasant and enjoyable, not to mention confidence-boosting.
Face-to-Face Learning
(AKA one-to-one learning, classroom learning)
Face-to-face learning is the traditional format of learning, and naturally, what we’re all most familiar and comfortable with. Some of us find it hard to even consider learning any other way, instantly thinking of many obstacles the moment anything alternatively is mentioned. Humans are designed for physical interaction and our understanding is reinforced through body language and facial expressions. This isn’t to say you can’t notice these things when learning online, but it becomes restrictive to see everything the instructor or teacher is showing us.
Some children need things explained clearly and concisely, essentially needing human interaction when things are being explained. It all depends on the learning style of the child.
Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of learning face-to-face:
Advantages
With a face-to-face class, your kids will have physical support from their teacher if or when they’re stuck
All craft equipment is generally provided for the child, all they need to do is turn up!
Your children get to socialise with lots of other children and make new friends at their classes
Other students can also support your child, and vice versa, developing great peer supporting skills
Your kids will be able to see demonstrations closely and clearly, which will give your children a greater understanding in the craft specialism
If they’re taught on a one-to-one basis, they’ll get all the specialist support and attention to their heart’s content, being able to learn proficiently at a faster rate. They’ll also get personalised lessons based on their learning ability, style and level.
Have you thought about giving your children private classes in hand embellishment? Find out more.
Disadvantages
With a face-to-face lesson, it can be time consuming preparing the children and travelling to the venue, especially if it’s on a regular basis
Face-to-face classes are naturally priced higher compared to online classes
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of travelling and eating out when taking up a classroom-based lesson
Some children may feel distracted by other children’s misbehaviour during the lesson, affecting their learning
Children may also feel shy to speak up within large classroom environments
Face-to-face classes can come in group and private learning settings, so it can be suited to you and your children’s requirements. As you’ve just seen, the cost implications can affect who it would appeal to, but needless to say, it is a more comfortable learning method for those who love extra support and
not suited to self-learning.
Final thoughts
After taking a look at the online and face-to-face learning methods, which felt more aligned with yours and your children’s requirements? What would suit your kid’s learning style, are they self-learners or need additional support? Financially, what would suit your budget in the long-run?
I hope this gave you a good idea of the advantages and disadvantages of learning both online and face-to-face. I would advise ranking each point and working out which outweighs the other. Also, don’t forget to discuss these options with your children as they’re the ones who’ll need to get the most out of their craft classes.
Some may not feel craft skills are worth investing in, but the learning development your children will experience are well worth the cost. That’s another blog for another day! Be sure to check-in to read that soon.
I’m keen to hear what you’ve decided on - do share your view with us via email or commenting below.
We hope to have you again, have a great week.
The Muslim Craft Club
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