Do you feel in doubt between taking a face-to-face or online course? Don't know how to choose between the two options or what to consider to make your decision?

So rest assured! That's because, our goal is to present some reflections for you to make your choice more safely.

Regardless of any factor, there are great courses to take in both formats. The main thing is for you to get to know yourself and understand how you learn best.

It is worth remembering that, until recently, this doubt was not so present. The options for online courses were much smaller than they are today.

Well, little by little, online classes gained space. By the way, this was due to the development of technology and the fact that the internet helped to democratize access!

Especially after the pandemic, the number of online courses and classes increased exponentially.

Thus, it was possible to realize that it was more interesting to offer certain courses at a distance. And this is a point that should also be considered when making your choice.

But, after all, what are the advantages that are presented for an online course and for a face-to-face course?

Let's get to know a little more about each modality and what you should take into account?

First, let's discuss some positives and negatives about the face-to-face course in order to compare it with the online one!

One of the most striking characteristics of face-to-face classes is the possibility of interacting with the professor/instructor.

Clearing your doubts directly when the class is taking place is great and can unfold to new questions in the classroom.

Furthermore, a colleague's doubt may also be yours and, in that case, you have the opportunity to also learn from the questions of others.

Another fundamental point that draws the attention of many people when choosing a face-to-face course instead of an online one is the chance to make professional contacts.

Networking is necessary in practically all areas and being side by side with a colleague is a valuable opportunity!

In addition, space can contribute a lot to your face-to-face learning. Depending on the course you are taking, the location gives you access to libraries and study rooms.

Many courses need to be worked with practical classes. You need to show your skills and the teacher needs to evaluate how you do the process.

Therefore, take into account how much the course you are looking for depends on this type of action. Theoretical courses are simpler to take online than in person.

On the other hand, a disadvantage of the face-to-face course in relation to the online one is that there are fixed schedules. So, if you have an unforeseen event and arrive late, you will miss part of the content.

For those who work, taking face-to-face courses can be even more challenging.

Also, distance is another annoyance. The time spent in transport is great and many courses are not offered close to your home.

That is, understand where the course will be and how much more time it will require from you if it is in person.

Finally, face-to-face courses usually charge more than online courses. This happens because there are more expenses. Thus, it is often necessary to charge for the rent of the used space, materials that can be offered.

Also remember that you will probably have extra expenses with transportation and food.

Now, let's get to know the advantages and disadvantages of an online course in relation to a face-to-face course!

Unlike the last points we covered about the face-to-face course, the convenience of the online course is much greater.

You can do everything from your computer, no matter where you are or how tight your schedule is!

Usually, online courses tend to be more affordable for your pocket. As we have already said, face-to-face courses have to pay several expenses.

This is not the case with online, which can focus on teacher/instructor fees and other basic costs.

Consequently, the financial issue facilitates the access of different people to different courses and topics.

Also, the fact that you can take a course at an institution far from your home is another advantage.

In this case, it's not just the distance and the time and expense. Think, for example, about courses from institutions outside the state where you live.

A previously impossible course to take can be accessible if it is offered online instead of face-to-face! 

However, the lack of infrastructure is a downside. The fact that you do not have access to spaces and support materials is a point to think about.

These are elements that can leverage your studies.

In addition, the famous networking is impaired in an online course.

It's much more difficult not only to meet people who take the same course as you, but to interact with them as well.

That's because many courses are just recorded and everyone sees when they can.

However, many platforms and teachers have created Whatsapp and Telegram groups to facilitate and enable this exchange.

We come to the last point on our list. With an online course it is much more difficult for you to clear a doubt.

As many classes are recorded, you can't interrupt the teacher and you won't even learn from your colleagues' doubts.

Despite this, Whatsapp and Telegram groups have helped in sharing doubts. But, it is worth considering that not all courses offer this tool.

Well, now it all depends on you! Understand which course you want to take and what are the particularities of it. Also, consider your intentions with the course, your other obligations, your available time, and the location of the course.

So, weigh everything on the scales and make your decision between an online or face-to-face course! Speaking of which, do you want to know some free online course options?

The IDEA Portal offers more than 3,000 courses with a certificate for you! While you decide what to do, you can experience all the advantages of this site.

In addition, you sign up in a few minutes and you can access any content. Want to know a step by step to enter the site? Click on the link below and see all the possibilities that are waiting for you!