The three main kinds of online English courses
(Para português, clique aqui)
Unlike what many people still think, not all online English courses are the same. In fact, there are three completely different main kinds.
Learn what they are and the differences between them:
Recorded sessions
How do they work?
The classes are recorded by the teacher and the student can watch them at their own convenience
pros: flexibility when it comes to when and where to study, autonomy, lower cost.
cons: not enough interaction. Lessons of this kind are off-the-peg, in the sense that they are tailored for a specific purpose and standardized.
Videoconferences
How do they work?
Teacher and Student interact real time, just like in a face-to-face course.
pros: flexibility when it comes to where the classes take place, personalised sessions, having someone who is available to answer questions and clarify doubts where needed.
cons: the internet needs to be good and the student needs to be available at specific times.
Blended learning
How does it work??
The course is designed to feature both recorded sessions and video conferencing.
pros: flexibility when it comes to where and when to study, autonomy. A fantastic feature of blended learning is the fact conference call sessions can be converted into eclasses when a student needs to miss a session.
cons: this kind, of course, is usually designed bearing in mind the student will be available for interaction at certain days and times and considering students will study outside the classroom. Missing a conference call session and not doing homework can actually be even worse than in the other kinds since the whole methodology relies on that.
