It’d be true to say that most people prefer face-to-face conversations when they interact with their friends. In terms of learning a new language, it’s even more important because it really builds your confidence in knowing how your friends react when you speak to them in that language.

Traditional classroom learning offers face-to-face conversations for instance public speaking and doing presentations in front of your classmates. It gives you meaningful experiences and memories you won’t forget. 

Online learning, however, offers face-to-face conversations too but not presentations. Doing a one-on-one conversation is nothing compared to public speaking in front of many people. Would you still have the same confidence then?

When in doubt we tend to want the on-the-spot answer. In school-based learning, during the lessons, we can ask our teacher if we need clarification or immediate answers on certain topics. Sadly, we can’t do the same with online language learning. 

Although there are some online language courses or platforms that have instant feedback it doesn’t have the can-you-elaborate-more-on-this option (provided that you’re not using Skype or have a one-on-one interaction).

Traditional learning allows you to learn on certain days and times. When it’s time for school or semester breaks and holidays you can’t gain access to it because your teachers are on vacation. Any question that needs immediate answer has to be put on hold.

One of the many reasons why school-based learning remains effective is because of the we-are-in-this-together environment. In a classroom, students do their tasks together such as doing classwork, taking tests and exams together, etc. They have a group of friends with them. 

While online learning we pretty much do every single thing alone. But if you’re a self-motivated and self-directed type of student who likes to do your work alone with no disturbances whatsoever this is perfect for you.

People who aren’t native in their second language tend to have an accent (not all but some). I had many English teachers during high school and college; a local teacher, an African teacher, an American teacher, and a Kiwi teacher. And yes, all of them have an accent. 

I honestly loved my American teacher and especially my Kiwi teacher because of their accent. I always tried to imitate the way they spoke. I loved the way they pronounce certain words.

Most schools offer English as their second language and add that to the list of compulsory subjects. The thing is not all students interested in learning English. They learn it simply because it’s compulsory.

To learn something you have to have an interest. Without that, it’s merely just an obstacle to go through to the next level. You might pass your English but you know nothing.

Why? Because you memorize everything in the textbook and don’t give a damn what it’s about let alone to understand it. It’s supposed to be ‘I learn this because I want to and it’s my passion’ don’t you think?

“I think the big mistake in schools is trying to teach children anything, and by using fear as the basic motivation. Fear of getting failing grades, fear of not staying with your class, etc. Interest can produce learning on a scale compared to fear as a nuclear explosion to a firecracker.”- Stanley Kubrick

The other scenario is you’re interested in English but your classmates don’t. So, whenever you want to discuss and/or practice English with one another you just can’t. That’s why it’s always good to have a friend of the same interest. It makes language learning fun and happening!

With online learning, you meet with lots of people from different backgrounds, cultures, and stories but all have the same interest. It’s fascinating, isn’t it?

While learning their languages you indirectly expose yourself to cultural differences. One thing for sure is you won’t be able to do this at school because you most likely share the same culture with your classmates.