As adult literacy practitioners, we share a common goal: to see as many adults improve their literacy skills as possible.
However, we know that sometimes, despite high motivation levels, some adults cannot attend a literacy program. From a lack of childcare to problems with transportation to busy work schedules, many barriers exist against an adult’s participation in learning.
So, when creating our literacy programs, we must consider features that encourage maximum participation. Often, this means considering whether to offer in-person classes or virtual lessons – the latter of which has become very popular post-pandemic.
We look at the benefits and disadvantages of both types of learning.
Advantages of in-person learning
When adult learners attend a class in person, it’s much easier for literacy practitioners to create a sense of engagement. The dialogue can be more easily controlled in a physical classroom, presenting more opportunities for community and relationship connections. Adult learners can also easily speak with fellow learners before and after the program, which creates a more social dynamic.
In addition, discussions are livelier and there are less technical issues like spotty Wi-Fi or awkward lags. Fewer distractions are present, which helps learners focus better. If a learner requires additional help understanding a concept, providing hands-on feedback in person can be more manageable.
Drawbacks of in-person learning
Unlike children and youth, adult learners manage several responsibilities – plenty of which can conflict with in-person classes. For example, if an adult has a job with a rotating schedule, attending an in-person class with a set day and time is nearly impossible. A lack of transportation or funds for bus fare or gas can also limit in-person learning.
Adult learners interested in traditional in-person learning are limited to nearby literacy programs. With online options, they can access programming through more organizations.
Unlike virtual learning, attending a literacy program in a traditional classroom setting can be more time-consuming. Learners must allow extra time to travel to and from the destination, creating less flexibility than online classes.
An in-person learning environment is not ideal for all learning styles, either. Quieter, shyer adults may feel intimidated to participate in discussions, unlike online communities, which typically have less stressful social interactions.
Benefits of online learning
Fortunately, modern technology has made virtual learning a common option for adults. Online learning is the fastest-growing market in the education industry with a 900 per cent growth rate globally since the year 2000.
And it’s no wonder why; research shows that online learning can be just as effective as in-person learning. Online learners retain approximately 25 to 60 per cent more of what they learn than traditional learners’ 8 to 10 per cent retention rates. Learners have more control over their learning experience and can revisit previous lessons if necessary.
While the retention rate improves, the amount of time spent studying decreases. According to a study by the Brandon-Hall Group, online learning programs take around 40 to 60 per cent less time to complete. Learners can often move at their own pace, allowing them to progress through familiar content quickly.
Disadvantages of online learning
As beneficial as online learning can be, it also has downsides. One of the biggest challenges involves having the skill set to complete online learning since it relies entirely on technology. Access to digital devices and internet connection is another significant challenge faced.
Adult learners must tackle technical problems when learning through a digital platform, like creating accounts and downloading files. If they don’t have strong digital literacy skills, these tasks can quickly lead to frustration and a lack of motivation.
Time management is another challenge involving online learning. Although adults are typically more committed to their education, self-motivation is especially crucial when learning remotely. Focusing on coursework and exams may be easier in a classroom setting, whereas daily life can quickly interrupt learning progress at home.
In addition, online learning is more isolating than in-person learning, and relationships between literacy practitioners and students are more challenging to maintain.
The online classroom can also sometimes lead to online fatigue.
The bottom line
Both in-person and online learning have advantages and disadvantages. When deciding on the best and most optimal adult literacy program, you’ll need to determine what’s best for most adult learners – and your organization. Perhaps a combination of both in-person and online learning is the best solution.
No matter whether your programs are in-person or virtual, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our free programs and resources!
