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• Education /

Online Classes vs Offline Classes

• Updated on  
• Jan 15, 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic brought a dynamic shift in the world education system . The imposition of lockdown led to the shutdown of physical classrooms and thus online education became the new norm. Although online learning has managed to keep education alive in these difficult times, it cannot completely replace it. Both online and offline education have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we will explore one of the most debated topics these days, online classes vs offline classes. 

This Blog Includes:

Online education, offline education, mode of education in offline and online classes, accessibility, time management, flexibility of classes, student-teacher interaction, technical issues in offline and online classes, practical learning, pros and cons of an online degree.

With the emergence of technology , the method of delivering education has forever changed. As a matter of fact, online education has become a flexible instructional method of teaching wherein students can easily gain access to study material in the comfort of their homes. Moreover, online education provides an excellent opportunity for students who are unable to enrol in traditional classrooms as well as supports students in setting their own pace for studying. 

Furthermore, online education helps in inculcating the habit of self-discipline and time management within students and provides them access to an unlimited number of educational resources. The students can easily set their own pace of learning as long as they have the right equipment and access to a proper internet connection. 

Also Read: Online Education in India

Offline education is the traditional counterpart to online education and the original method of learning that allows students to have regular face-to-face interactions with their peers and teachers. However, as much as online education is predicted to be the future of learning, it cannot replace the holistic aspect of offline education.

Moreover, offline education also allows teachers to monitor the responses and behaviour of their students and accordingly address them as and when required. Hence, no matter how advanced online education is, offline education will continue to play a vital role in the development of students.  

Also Read: Are Online Classes Becoming the New Normal?

Online Education vs Offline Education

While online education is not a new phenomenon, its importance came to light during the pandemic. Given below is a table that highlights the main differences between online education vs offline education. 

When it comes to online classes, teachers can easily educate their students via virtual classrooms. Students can easily access learning materials from anywhere as long as they have proper access to an internet connection. Additionally, Online classes provide teachers with a number of online learning tools including videos, audio, animations, virtual whiteboards, virtual conference rooms and live chats with the students. 

On the other hand, offline classes provide students with a practical learning environment within the walls of a physical classroom. It allows students to closely interact with their teachers as well as participate actively in live discussions and debates. Moreover, students can also participate in recreational activities like art and physical education which contributes to the overall mental and physical development of the student. 

Also Read: Massive Open Online Courses

One of the greatest advantages of online classes is their accessibility from anywhere around the world. Students can simply log in from anywhere and gain access to learning material from the convenience of their homes. Applications like Zoom and Microsoft Team have allowed students to easily attend their lectures without having to leave the safety of their homes. Thus, online classes provide the distinct advantage of location flexibility.  

However, offline classes require students to travel to the location of their educational institution. Teaching takes place in a fixed location which would typically comprise a lecture hall or a physical classroom. Additionally, certain students may need to travel far to reach their respective educational institutions and this may cause a great deal of inconvenience.

Students who attend online classes are faced with the big challenge of time management . Online learners are typically distracted by a multitude of tasks and they lack a proper schedule. Since online classes provide the advantage of self-paced learning, students may not have a proper schedule and may succumb to the habit of procrastination . Moreover, students are required to stay logged in to their online classes for an extended period of time which may lead to students surfing the web for distractions or checking their social media pages. 

In the case of offline classes, students have to adhere to a strict schedule that has been set up by the teachers. Furthermore, since there is synchronous learning, students will be required to complete their work and projects on time.

The flexibility of classes is the main highlight of online classes. It allows students to set their own learning pace without any additional pressure. Additionally, since students have access to recorded videos and online reading material, they can easily attend lectures as and when it is convenient. It also gives students more time to digest the study material and complete their work or research at their own pace. 

On the other hand, there is a certain amount of rigidity when it comes to offline education. Students are required to attend their lectures or sessions on time since there are no pre-recorded videos or notes that are easily available to the students. Hence, students are required to follow a predetermined and strict schedule as set by their educational institute. 

Also Read: Pros and Cons of Online Learning Speech

Contrary to the popular belief that there is hardly any interaction between students and teachers in online education, there is an ample amount of interaction between students and teachers over the online platform. Online classes allow students to get in touch with their teachers no matter the time or location. Online classrooms also allow two-way communication which significantly influences learning. Moreover, student-teacher interaction in online classes may be both synchronous and asynchronous. 

There is face-to-face interaction in the case of offline classes, especially because teaching is synchronous. There is active communication between students and teachers which allows for lively discussions and debates between them. Moreover, it allows students to immediately address their doubts and receive quick feedback. Teachers are adapting to different methods of teaching to engage students.

Online classes are always challenged by technical issues. Access to proper electronic equipment such as webcams, microphones, headphones and computers along with a proper internet connection is a mandatory requirement for online classes. Additionally, technical issues such as slow internet connection or lack of availability of proper technical infrastructure may interfere with seamless learning. Moreover, students may face difficulty in attending live lectures or downloading videos or online notes. 

On the other hand, Offline classes, are rarely threatened by technical issues. Students and teachers are not required to be exceptionally tech-savvy and since most learning occurs within the physical classroom, technical issues are not a major issue except for any lessons that require presentations or computers. 

Online education is purely theoretical and takes place entirely online. This scarcely allows students to take part in the practical aspects of learning which is an equally important part of education. Subjects like chemistry , physics , biology , art and sports require students to be physically present and conduct live experiments or actively participate in the activity. 

Offline classes provide a stimulating environment that combines both theoretical and practical aspects of learning, unlike online classes. This contributes to the overall cognitive and skill development of the students. Practical learning allows you to learn and quickly adapt to daily challenges and scenarios and allows you to get a better understanding of lessons. 

Watch this video to understand the Pros and Cons of an Online Degree right here!

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Offline classes, as opposed to online classes, provide a stimulating environment that incorporates both academic and practical components of learning. This helps students’ overall cognitive and skill development.

Offline learning is preferable since it allows you to engage with other students in a more natural setting. You can ask questions, solve tasks, and receive personalised feedback from your teacher. Another benefit of offline classes is that they are more dependable.

The distinction between online and offline communication is traditionally viewed as a distinction between computer-mediated communication and face-to-face communication (e.g., face time). Offline is reality, while online is virtuality or cyberspace (i.e., real life or “meatspace”).

Online Classes vs Offline Classes which one do you prefer? For more information on such informative topics, visit our school education page and follow Leverage Edu .

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12 comments

Online classes is better than offline class in this covid19 pandemic situation

Hello Nasrin, We totally agree with you and believe that online classes do have their own share of advantages too. Here are some recommended reads that you can check out on the same: https://leverageedu.com/blog/online-learning/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/online-courses/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/online-classes-are-the-new-normal/

Very nice content

Acc. 2 me offline is better. As it boost 😤 Student confidence nd to talk freely with his /her teacher. As in online one can ask ques privately, perfectly clear doubt but isn’t it lower confudence . As he /she can ask his/her ques. But in future while in any situation when he /she need to do some open conversation or any other situation. He /she can’t able to do it perfectly. To b good there strt it frm starting.

Me offline class is best 🙂 Thank you

Hey Deepanshi, offline and online courses both have their merits and demerits. Glad to know that you find offline better!

In my opinion offline classes is best way of learning ☺️

Thank you for the comment!

The information you’ve shared in this blog is highly remarkable. Thanks for sharing quality information.

Thank you for such encouraging feedback. We are continuously working hard to bring all the important information for our readers regarding study abroad queries. If you are interested in knowing more about such study abroad related services call Leverage Edu anytime at 1800 572 000 for a free consultancy session.

Online classes make Health issues, spending so much time in front of computer cause bad affects on health But in Physical Offline Classes are very much better than online classes in my opinion, when you meet peoples physically your mind get open and with physically connect with teacher gets your study perfect. OFFLINE CLASSES ARE THE BEST in terms of everything

Well , i have a question though . what about introvert students ? Who are too shy to approach to the teacher , they are much more comfortable in online , aren’t they ?

Online classes are undoubtedly great for introvert students. But if you’re an introvert and you take offline classes, you will be able to build courage and confidence which will prove beneficial in the future.

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Online Classes Vs. Traditional Classes Essay

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Online Vs. In-Person Classes Essay – Introduction

Online and traditional classes differences, works cited.

The article compares and contrasts online classes and traditional classes. Among the advantages of online classes are flexibility and convenience, while in-person classes offer a more structured learning environment. The author highlights that online lessons can be more cost-effective, although they lack support provided by live interactions. Overall, the online vs. traditional classes essay is very relevant today, and the choice depends on the individual student’s needs and preferences.

Modern technology has infiltrated the education sector and as a result, many college students now prefer taking online classes, as opposed to attending the traditional regular classes. This is because online classes are convenient for such students, and more so for those who have to both work and attend classes.

As such, online learning gives them the flexibility that they needed. In addition, online learning also gives an opportunity to students and professionals who would not have otherwise gone back to school to get the necessary qualifications. However, students who have enrolled for online learning do not benefit from the one-on-one interaction with their peers and teachers. The essay shall endeavor to examine the differences between online classes and the traditional classes, with a preference for the later.

Online classes mainly take place through the internet. As such, online classes lack the regular student teacher interaction that is common with traditional learning. On the other hand, learning in traditional classes involves direct interaction between the student and the instructors (Donovan, Mader and Shinsky 286).

This is beneficial to both the leaner and the instructors because both can be bale to establish a bond. In addition, student attending the traditional classroom often have to adhere to strict guidelines that have been established by the learning institution. As such, students have to adhere to the established time schedules. On the other hand, students attending online classes can learn at their own time and pace.

One advantage of the traditional classes over online classes is that students who are not disciplined enough may not be able to sail through successfully because there is nobody to push them around. With traditional classes however, there are rules to put them in check. As such, students attending traditional classes are more likely to be committed to their education (Donovan et al 286).

Another advantage of the traditional classes is all the doubts that students might be having regarding a given course content can be cleared by the instructor on the spot, unlike online learning whereby such explanations might not be as coherent as the student would have wished.

With the traditional classes, students are rarely provided with the course materials by their instructors, and they are therefore expected to take their own notes. This is important because they are likely to preserve such note and use them later on in their studies. In contrast, online students are provided with course materials in the form of video or audio texts (Sorenson and Johnson 116).

They can also download such course materials online. Such learning materials can be deleted or lost easily compared with handwritten class notes, and this is a risk. Although the basic requirements for a student attending online classes are comparatively les in comparison to students attending traditional classes, nonetheless, it is important to note that online students are also expected to be internet savvy because all learning takes place online.

This would be a disadvantage for the regular student; only that internet savvy is not a requirement. Students undertaking online learning are likely to be withdrawn because they hardly interact one-on-one with their fellow online students or even their instructors. The only form of interaction is online. As such, it becomes hard for them to develop a special bond with other students and instructors. With traditional learning however, students have the freedom to interact freely and this helps to strengthen their existing bond.

Online learning is convenient and has less basic requirements compared with traditional learning. It also allows learners who would have ordinarily not gone back to school to access an education. However, online students do not benefit from a close interaction with their peers and instructors as do their regular counterparts. Also, regular students can engage their instructors more easily and relatively faster in case they want to have certain sections of the course explained, unlike online students.

Donovan, Judy, Mader, Cynthia and Shinsky, John. Constructive student feedback: Online vs. traditional course evaluations. Journal of Interactive Online Learning , 5.3(2006): 284-292.

Sorenson, Lynn, and Johnson, Trav. Online Student Ratings of Instructions . San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2003. Print.

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Essay on online vs offline education – [500 words].

Write an essay on online vs offline education in 500 words:

Just 2 years back, the idea of online education was almost incomprehensible to common minds. But now Online classes and the concept of Online Education have taken an important part in a lot of areas. Ever since the pandemic in 2020, the governments forced people to stay in their homes for almost half a year. All these wastes of months took a lot of toll on people’s livelihoods and children’s education. The educational institutes had to find a solution. So they moved towards online classes or online sessions. This opened a whole new form of education which the world never had hoped for. Students had more access to attend these online classes without traveling to a faraway place or spending a lot of time getting ready to go to universities or college. Even after the pandemic ended and the world is going back to the way it was. Online education has become a normal practice now for a lot of college institutions. Even after all these advantages, some students still prefer the offline or face-to-face form of education. Let’s discuss the main differences between online and offline education in great detail

Online Education

Online education is also called distance learning. It’s a format of education that can be done from a far distance. Online education is done mainly through the internet. Students can use either portable devices like Mobile Phones and Laptops or stick to traditional desktop PCs. The Most used application for online learning is Zoom, a Chinese app. There are also some pretty good alternatives like Discord etc. All these apps are free to use which makes them far more accessible for students of all backgrounds. The only challenging part of online education is getting a digital device. You can buy laptops and mobile phones from the market at a huge variety of prices. There are always some mobile phone or laptop options available in your budget.

Online education-providing institutes also provide learning material in soft forms i.e. PDFs and Docs. These can be used at any time and unlike books, you do not need to carry heavy books all the time. Online education also allows you to take classes/lectures from all over the world. This saves both time and expenses as some students are forced to relocate to a whole new region away from their families. This makes it hard for students to live leisurely and focus on their studies.

Offline Education

Offline Education or previously known as traditional and face-to-face education is the most common method of giving out education. Online classes are great for lower expenses and are easier to get but Offline classes are far more beneficial as a whole. Students can ask about problems the teacher during the lecture or ask other students about the problem. This helps in understanding the topics more easily. Offline education also gives a chance for students to make friends and get social. This enables them to develop every day talking skills and to be able to hold conversations in all types of scenarios. Offline education also gives a chance for students to get punctual and wake early and clean themselves. All of these habits help us in becoming more accepted into society.

No one can claim either online or offline as a better form of education. It depends on the preferences of every student independently. Some may prefer going to college physically and experience studying physically some may prefer staying home and do studying on their laptops.

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Online vs Offline Education: Advantages and Disadvantages

Inside this article, table of contents.

• General Blog
• September 22, 2021
• inspiria-author
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Online vs Offline Education: Advantages and Disadvantages:

The pandemic has brought about changes that previously seemed far off in the future. The “new normal,” as we’ve dubbed it, is a world we’d only glimpsed or read about in bits and pieces in science fiction books and movies. We never anticipated, however, that we would see something comparable to those fictitious scenarios in real life.

If we were to list all of the changes that have occurred in people’s daily lives, the list would be endless, but one important shift that we can all notice is in the education sector. The entire global education system has been turned upside down. This change was not modest, and it lasted for more than a year. Students may even feel a little strange if they return to the classroom because it has become so remote. This is still true in many places of the world today. The majority of today’s learning takes place online, or through screens, with the aid of technological platforms.

While the majority of individuals (students and their parents) have adapted to the new online curriculum, others still struggle and prefer the offline curriculum. There is also an ongoing debate behind the scenes among students and parents regarding which of the two educational mediums is better. While there is no perfect solution, the basic reality is that both online and offline courses offer advantages and disadvantages. When compared to one another, they both seem to stand on their own and appear to be the ideal structure for a certain situation. In this blog we will discuss a few major advantages and disadvantages of online and offline education.

Online Education

There is no denying that online education has grown in popularity since the pandemic. Although not a novel concept, a few aspects of online education had been integrated into the school curriculum even before the pandemic in the form of smart classrooms. Aside from that, the medium was mostly known because of various ed-tech ventures such as Unacademy and Byju’s. Today, online education is almost synonymous with attending school, with students sitting in front of a screen watching their teacher educate. Students even give tests online, in addition to attending classes via screens to submitting homework and assignments through online groups and forums. Students were able to receive at least some form of education even in a situation as dire as a global pandemic, thanks to online education.

Advantages of Online Education

Flexible: Online classes allow students to be more flexible with their schedules because they can attend classes from the comfort of their own homes. They can divide their time and plan their daily schedule accordingly. This flexibility also allows them to learn about other things that interest them; they can take online lessons or enrol in other courses. As a result, they expand their knowledge as well as their personality. Aside from that, they can even spend the rest of their time developing their offline hobbies.

Ease of Access: Online education is easily available everywhere and at any time if one has a reliable internet connection. In contrast to offline lectures where you only attend once and take notes, students can record online classes and sessions for future reference.

Affordable: In comparison to offline school, where fees range from transportation to uniforms, extracurriculars, and a variety of other things, the whole education cost in online education is deducted fairly. Apart from the fixed costs, the only costs are the internet connection and devices, both of which are widely available in most families today. Comfortable and convenient: Because of the reasons stated above, online education is far more convenient than traditional education. Even when it comes to attending classes, students feel more at ease in online classes. The medium as a whole not only saves time but also resources for students and teachers.

Disadvantages of Online Education

Technical Issues: Any connectivity issues that may arise are one of the key downsides of online education. Because electricity and connectivity are very unprecedented, depending on the geographical area, technical challenges may arise, which can be a significant barrier to online education.

Indifferent attention: For a teacher, one of the major disadvantages of online education is managing student attention. When a teacher is teaching an online class, it can be difficult for them to focus on each and every student. It can be tough to tell who is focused and who is simply attending the class for the sake of attending. Overall, it means less interaction between the teacher and the students, which could make it difficult to communicate what is being taught effectively.

Screen Time: Another significant and unavoidable disadvantage of online classes is the amount of time spent in front of the computer. Students end up looking at screens for longer periods of time than usual, which might be harmful to their health.

Minimal Peer Engagement: Online education, unlike offline education, does not allow students to engage with their peers on a daily basis. A kid can video chat and converse on the phone with friends and peers, but it isn’t the same as having those conversations in a school setting. Interaction with classmates in school teaches a student a lot of things and aids in the development of numerous skills such as leadership, teamwork, and so on. Online education eliminates the need to attend school, resulting in little to no interaction with peers and a significant loss of experience.

Offline Education

Due to the pandemic, offline schooling has suddenly become a luxury. For students, the meaning of education has shifted as going to school has become more challenging. Students used to learn not only from books, but also through interacting with their peers and teachers, as well as by experiencing a variety of scenarios and obstacles in school. But this was all put to pause because of the pandemic in the past year and a half. Because of the ever-changing rise and decrease in the number of diseases, students in many regions of the world still do not have the luxury of attending school.

Advantages of Offline Education

Experience: Experience is undoubtedly one of the most significant advantages of offline education. When a student attends school, they not only spend their time studying through textbooks, but they also live in a specific environment. This allows kids to study a variety of lessons that aren’t covered in their textbooks. Interaction with peers and teachers aids in the acquisition of certain life skills such as leadership, communication, and so on, and plays an important role in the development of their personalities.

Attention: For both students and teachers, attention comes naturally and easily in an offline situation rather than online. Because a teacher may pay greater attention to individual students in a classroom, kids tend to pay more attention because they are afraid of being called out by the teacher. This makes it simple for both the teacher and the students to deliver and comprehend the lesson.

No distractions: Since a classroom is enclosed and everyone sitting there usually has the same goal, there are fewer distractions for a student as compared to sitting in front of a screen alone listening to a lecture.

Disadvantages of Offline Education

Time Management: It is an irrefutable fact that a school day is jam-packed and that students spend the entire day on campus. Even if the students return home in the evening, exhaustion takes its toll, and the remaining time is spent resting. When compared to online schooling, this may appear to be a disadvantage because the online format allows for more time flexibility. Because no time is spent commuting, the time saved can be spent on other activities such as hobby classes. Students can also save a lot of energy in online classes compared to offline classes and put it to better use.

Extra Resources : Offline education necessitates a completely different type of curriculum that goes beyond textbooks and reading. This implies more resources are spent, which can be a drawback when compared to online education, where you only have to spend money on the internet and gadgets aside from the fixed costs.

No Recordings of Classes: To this day, it is almost unusual to be able to capture an ongoing lesson. So, in an offline education context, you’d be lucky to acquire recorded recordings of the sessions you attended; instead, you’d have to make do with the notes you took during class. With contrast, it is the polar opposite in online education.

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Online vs Offline Education: Pros and Cons [2024]

The entire educational system underwent a seismic shift due to the Covid-19 epidemic. Physical classrooms were shut down due to the lockdown, and online learning replaced it as the norm. Online learning cannot completely replace it, even if it has helped to keep education alive in these challenging times. By examining all the aspects, we will assist you in choosing the best way for you in this article.

Online Education

Technology’s development has fundamentally altered how education is delivered. Online learning has developed into a flexible teaching style that allows students to quickly access study materials from the comfort of their homes. Online learning also supports students in choosing their own study pace and offers an excellent chance for those unable to enroll in traditional classroom settings. Students who attend classes online have access to many educational resources and learn how to manage their time and self-discipline. Students who have the required tools and access to a reliable internet connection may determine their learning speed. Teachers can merely instruct their pupils in virtual classrooms regarding online education. As long as they have sufficient access to an internet connection, students may effortlessly access educational resources from any location. Teachers who teach online can access various online learning resources, including virtual whiteboards, conference rooms, audio and video files, animations, and live conversations with the students.

– Online classes are convenient because you can attend them from the comfort of your home, and a few courses also provide lecture recordings that you can look up at any time.

– They are affordable compared to offline classes because the institute saves infrastructure costs, and you can save money on commute.

– They are more comfortable for those with social anxiety because they can turn off the video and audio if they like.

– At the same time, it can foster more interaction; if people are not comfortable with asking in front of people, they can do it here in a confidential manner.

– Online learning has a little less sense of community which can lead to a feeling of isolation.

– It also requires self-discipline; because there is no accountability in online classes, people tend to lack self-discipline and miss classes more than usual.

– Online classes are prone to technical issues with audio, video, and connectivity.

Related: Free Online Courses

Offline Education

The traditional counterpart to online learning is offline learning, the first way for students to interact regularly in person with their peers and professors. Offline learning is unaffected by technical issues and offers fantastic opportunities for students to establish and follow a strict regimen. Additionally, offline instruction allows teachers to see their students’ responses and behavior and intervene as necessary. As a result, offline education will always be crucial to students’ development regardless of how sophisticated online education grows.

– Offline classes are less distracting due to classroom engagement.

– Increased classroom engagement makes the environment dynamic, leading to healthy competition among students. Interaction among students often results in better learning.

– The fact that offline education promotes teacher-student contact and goes beyond standard lectures is a crucial benefit. Interaction prompts inquiries about a topic, which encourages further investigation and learning—the student’s attention span increases in engaging sessions. Additionally, students’ attention spans were longer when they used social networking sites less frequently.

– Teachers can get to know their students better through offline learning. In addition, understanding what their pupils think helps teachers create engaging lessons. Therefore, there are more opportunities when curricula are adapted to students’ needs.

– We are all aware of how important extracurricular activities are, and that offline learning is the best way to support them.

– The institutions for offline lessons are all at the same place, and each student has to find a special means to get there. The additional travel and preparation time costs money and takes away from time that may be spent on independent study.

– Because the timings are fixed, offline lessons have little room for flexibility.

– In addition to the cost of tuition, boarding, and travel expenses to campuses, an offline study is a costly form of learning, as we previously said.

– In today’s fast-developing industry, students who have obtained their education offline may be disadvantaged due to a lack of exposure to technology.

– When studying offline, you must first locate a suitable institution and determine your enrollment eligibility. Additionally, admission is contingent on meeting their requirements. There are so many requirements to enter an offline institute that it is difficult to learn. People sometimes have trouble finding the classes they want to enroll in, which is a problem since it forces them to study something they don’t want to do out of necessity.

Related: Free Certification Courses

Which One Should You Choose?

– Teachers in online classrooms can access many online learning resources, including audio, video, animations, virtual whiteboards, conference rooms, and live student conversations. On the other hand, offline classes provide students with a hands-on learning experience inside an actual classroom.

– One of their biggest benefits is accessing online courses from anywhere in the world. Students may access study materials from their homes’ convenience by logging in from any location. On the other hand, students must travel to the location of their academic institution for offline lectures.

– Students who enroll in online courses struggle with time management severely. Because online classes allow for self-paced learning, some students may lack a fixed study schedule and develop a procrastinating habits. Students in offline courses must adhere to a strict program set by the instructors. Students are less likely to be distracted inside a real classroom, and children learn to finish their homework on time.

– Online lessons have the significant advantage of being flexible. Since they can access video recordings and online reading material, students may attend classes when convenient. There is some rigidity when it comes to offline schooling. Students must arrive on time for lectures and other classes. Students are thus compelled to follow a predetermined and strict schedule set by their educational institution.

– Online instruction is only theoretical and takes place online. This makes it challenging for students to engage in hands-on learning activities, which are also essential components of education. Instead of online classes, offline classes provide a stimulating environment that combines academic and real-world learning. You may learn more quickly and adapt to everyday situations and barriers with practical knowledge, which also helps you understand lessons better.

How Does Online Education Differ from Offline Education?

Mode of learning.

Online classes use live video apps, digital content, and other resources. Students can access classes from anywhere in the world. They can connect with teachers and peers through the team app used for conducting live online classes. They need only a computer with an Internet connection to join online classes.

Offline classes are the traditional learning systems that require students to join classrooms in person. All students know this learning system as they go through it for most of their formal education. This system is location-bound, so students must travel to the educational institution to attend the class. Few schools and colleges operate in sparsely populated areas, so students travel long distances to attend classes at these places. Offline classes are held in physical classrooms, and some form of digital content is now used to augment offline education.

Structured Schedule

Live online classes have fixed schedules. Some courses do not have any live online classes, and students can study the course materials at their preferred time. Students of online classes sometimes face time management issues as the responsibility of studying lies with them. They may not feel motivated at times and skip their regular online study. No senior person is there to supervise and ensure they are studying.

Some students can go slow when they can study at their own pace. Studying online without supervision makes it difficult to follow a disciplined learning schedule. Learners can start checking social media and other online content during their study time, affecting the education results.

Offline traditional education is structured and confined to a physical classroom. There are no distractions here as everything is designed to ensure students focus on learning and the teacher focuses on teaching. The classroom environment is ideal for learning as the place is dedicated to education. The structured education schedule ensures a better learning experience. Students must follow the schedules of the curriculum, homework, and projects.

Practical Exercises

Students of online classes do not have any way to participate in practical classes. They cannot work on projects that offer hands-on experience. However, some online classes take a hybrid approach, where theoretical concepts are delivered through online classes while practical classes are held offline.

In the offline education system, students face no difficulty attending practical classes. They can practice in the lab under the guidance of their lab instructor or teacher and participate in practical projects that require group coordination with other students. Some courses require students to visit workplaces, project sites, or specific places around the city. All such practical projects are possible in offline education.

Technical Requirements

Online classes are dependent on electronic devices like computers. Students need Internet services to access their online classes and course content. Sometimes, there can be technical issues, causing problems for students who cannot solve such problems on their own. Online education is not possible in places where Internet service is unavailable.

Offline classes do not face many technical issues as teachers educate students from their knowledge and book content. However, most educational institutions now use electronic devices and digital content to impart education. Classrooms have smart boards, and teachers use computers and software programs to teach and assess students. Most offline education providers are ready to handle occasional technical issues with these systems.

Interaction with the Teachers

With online classes, interaction with the teachers depends on the type of class. Students connect with teachers through an online video platform for a live online class. At the same time, some live online classes have lots of students learning simultaneously. In such a case, the teacher cannot interact with so many students.

Offline classes are highly interactive with face-to-face student-teacher interaction. Unless a class has many students, teachers interact with the students, ask questions, clear doubts, share ideas, hold discussions, and provide feedback. This engaging education system delivers a better learning experience for students.

Different Types of Online and Offline Classes

Online class options include:

Real-Time Classes

Students must attend these classes on fixed schedules. The live online classes try to imitate the traditional classroom setting. The difference is that in a live online class, students and the teacher come together in a virtual classroom.

Non-Live Online Classes

Students in this setup receive course materials they can study according to their learning schedule. The classes have no fixed schedule, but the course has a fixed duration. This learning system works well for working professionals, those with busy schedules, and those living in a different time zone than the course provider.

One-to-One Online Classes

One teacher connects with one student only in this system. It is the most expensive online learning system, popular mainly for private tuition up to the undergraduate level.

Types of Offline Classes

Traditional classes.

All students are aware of this offline traditional education system. They visit the educational institution to attend their class. A teacher, professor, or instructor teaches them in a face-to-face setting. This traditional education system remains the preferred way to acquire knowledge and skills.

Practical Classes

These classes are held to impart practical knowledge to students. They can work on projects that require their physical presence to carry out experiments or participation in the activity.

Hybrid Classes

Many online education programs use this option to cover the course’s theoretical and practical aspects. In this setup, online classes are reserved for theoretical learning, while practical classes are held in an offline setting that requires students to attend the class in person.

Online vs Offline Education : Comparison Table

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After analyzing everything mentioned above, you can determine what works best for you and choose that. Both offline and online education have pros and cons, so deciding what works for you is crucial before enrolling in either.

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A Comparison of Student Learning Outcomes: Online Education vs. Traditional Classroom Instruction

Despite the prevalence of online learning today, it is often viewed as a less favorable option when compared to the traditional, in-person educational experience. Criticisms of online learning come from various sectors, like employer groups, college faculty, and the general public, and generally includes a lack of perceived quality as well as rigor. Additionally, some students report feelings of social isolation in online learning (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019).

In my experience as an online student as well as an online educator, online learning has been just the opposite. I have been teaching in a fully online master’s degree program for the last three years and have found it to be a rich and rewarding experience for students and faculty alike. As an instructor, I have felt more connected to and engaged with my online students when compared to in-person students. I have also found that students are actively engaged with course content and demonstrate evidence of higher-order thinking through their work. Students report high levels of satisfaction with their experiences in online learning as well as the program overall as indicated in their Student Evaluations of Teaching  (SET) at the end of every course. I believe that intelligent course design, in addition to my engagement in professional development related to teaching and learning online, has greatly influenced my experience.

In an article by Wiley Education Services, authors identified the top six challenges facing US institutions of higher education, and include:

• Declining student enrollment
• Financial difficulties
• Fewer high school graduates
• Decreased state funding
• Lower world rankings
• Declining international student enrollments

Of the strategies that institutions are exploring to remedy these issues, online learning is reported to be a key focus for many universities (“Top Challenges Facing US Higher Education”, n.d.).

Babson Survey Research Group, 2016, [PDF file].

Some of the questions I would like to explore in further research include:

• What factors influence engagement and connection in distance education?
• Are the learning outcomes in online education any different than the outcomes achieved in a traditional classroom setting?
• How do course design and instructor training influence these factors?
• In what ways might educational technology tools enhance the overall experience for students and instructors alike?

In this literature review, I have chosen to focus on a comparison of student learning outcomes in online education versus the traditional classroom setting. My hope is that this research will unlock the answers to some of the additional questions posed above and provide additional direction for future research.

Online Learning Defined

According to Mayadas, Miller, and Sener (2015), online courses are defined by all course activity taking place online with no required in-person sessions or on-campus activity. It is important to note, however, that the Babson Survey Research Group, a prominent organization known for their surveys and research in online learning, defines online learning as a course in which 80-100% occurs online. While this distinction was made in an effort to provide consistency in surveys year over year, most institutions continue to define online learning as learning that occurs 100% online.

Blended or hybrid learning is defined by courses that mix face to face meetings, sessions, or activities with online work. The ratio of online to classroom activity is often determined by the label in which the course is given. For example, a blended classroom course would likely include more time spent in the classroom, with the remaining work occurring outside of the classroom with the assistance of technology. On the other hand, a blended online course would contain a greater percentage of work done online, with some required in-person sessions or meetings (Mayadas, Miller, & Sener, 2015).

A classroom course (also referred to as a traditional course) refers to course activity that is anchored to a regular meeting time.

Enrollment Trends in Online Education

There has been an upward trend in the number of postsecondary students enrolled in online courses in the U.S. since 2002. A report by the Babson Survey Research Group showed that in 2016, more than six million students were enrolled in at least one online course. This number accounted for 31.6% of all college students (Seaman, Allen, & Seaman, 2018). Approximately one in three students are enrolled in online courses with no in-person component. Of these students, 47% take classes in a fully online program. The remaining 53% take some, but not all courses online (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019).

(Seaman et al., 2016, p. 11)

Perceptions of Online Education

In a 2016 report by the Babson Survey Research Group, surveys of faculty between 2002-2015 showed approval ratings regarding the value and legitimacy of online education ranged from 28-34 percent. While numbers have increased and decreased over the thirteen-year time frame, faculty approval was at 29 percent in 2015, just 1 percent higher than the approval ratings noted in 2002 – indicating that perceptions have remained relatively unchanged over the years (Allen, Seaman, Poulin, & Straut, 2016).

(Allen, I.E., Seaman, J., Poulin, R., Taylor Strout, T., 2016, p. 26)

In a separate survey of chief academic officers, perceptions of online learning appeared to align with that of faculty. In this survey, leaders were asked to rate their perceived quality of learning outcomes in online learning when compared to traditional in-person settings. While the percentage of leaders rating online learning as “inferior” or “somewhat inferior” to traditional face-to-face courses dropped from 43 percent to 23 percent between 2003 to 2012, the number rose again to 29 percent in 2015 (Allen, Seaman, Poulin, & Straut, 2016).

Faculty and academic leaders in higher education are not alone when it comes to perceptions of inferiority when compared to traditional classroom instruction. A 2013 Gallop poll assessing public perceptions showed that respondents rated online education as “worse” in five of the seven categories seen in the table below.

(Saad, L., Busteed, B., and Ogisi, M., 2013, October 15)

In general, Americans believed that online education provides both lower quality and less individualized instruction and less rigorous testing and grading when compared to the traditional classroom setting. In addition, respondents also thought that employers would perceive a degree from an online program less positively when compared to a degree obtained through traditional classroom instruction (Saad, Busteed, & Ogisi, 2013).

Student Perceptions of Online Learning

So what do students have to say about online learning? In  Online College Students 2015: Comprehensive Data on Demands and Preferences,  1500 college students who were either enrolled or planning to enroll in a fully online undergraduate, graduate, or certificate program were surveyed. 78 percent of students believed the academic quality of their online learning experience to be better than or equal to their experiences with traditional classroom learning. Furthermore, 30 percent of online students polled said that they would likely not attend classes face to face if their program were not available online (Clienfelter & Aslanian, 2015). The following video describes some of the common reasons why students choose to attend college online.

How Online Learning Affects the Lives of Students ( Pearson North America, 2018, June 25)

In a 2015 study comparing student perceptions of online learning with face to face learning, researchers found that the majority of students surveyed expressed a preference for traditional face to face classes. A content analysis of the findings, however, brought attention to two key ideas: 1) student opinions of online learning may be based on “old typology of distance education” (Tichavsky, et al, 2015, p.6) as opposed to actual experience, and 2) a student’s inclination to choose one form over another is connected to issues of teaching presence and self-regulated learning (Tichavsky et al, 2015).

Student Learning Outcomes

Given the upward trend in student enrollment in online courses in postsecondary schools and the steady ratings of the low perceived value of online learning by stakeholder groups, it should be no surprise that there is a large body of literature comparing student learning outcomes in online classes to the traditional classroom environment.

While a majority of the studies reviewed found no significant difference in learning outcomes when comparing online to traditional courses (Cavanaugh & Jacquemin, 2015; Kemp & Grieve, 2014; Lyke & Frank 2012; Nichols, Shaffer, & Shockey, 2003; Stack, 2015; Summers, Waigandt, & Whittaker, 2005), there were a few outliers. In a 2019 report by Protopsaltis & Baum, authors confirmed that while learning is often found to be similar between the two mediums, students “with weak academic preparation and those from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds consistently underperform in fully-online environments” (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019, n.p.). An important consideration, however, is that these findings are primarily based on students enrolled in online courses at the community college level – a demographic with a historically high rate of attrition compared to students attending four-year institutions (Ashby, Sadera, & McNary, 2011). Furthermore, students enrolled in online courses have been shown to have a 10 – 20 percent increase in attrition over their peers who are enrolled in traditional classroom instruction (Angelino, Williams, & Natvig, 2007). Therefore, attrition may be a key contributor to the lack of achievement seen in this subgroup of students enrolled in online education.

In contrast, there were a small number of studies that showed that online students tend to outperform those enrolled in traditional classroom instruction. One study, in particular, found a significant difference in test scores for students enrolled in an online, undergraduate business course. The confounding variable, in this case, was age. Researchers found a significant difference in performance in nontraditional age students over their traditional age counterparts. Authors concluded that older students may elect to take online classes for practical reasons related to outside work schedules, and this may, in turn, contribute to the learning that occurs overall (Slover & Mandernach, 2018).

In a meta-analysis and review of online learning spanning the years 1996 to 2008, authors from the US Department of Education found that students who took all or part of their classes online showed better learning outcomes than those students who took the same courses face-to-face. In these cases, it is important to note that there were many differences noted in the online and face-to-face versions, including the amount of time students spent engaged with course content. The authors concluded that the differences in learning outcomes may be attributed to learning design as opposed to the specific mode of delivery (Means, Toyoma, Murphy, Bakia, Jones, 2009).

Limitations and Opportunities

After examining the research comparing student learning outcomes in online education with the traditional classroom setting, there are many limitations that came to light, creating areas of opportunity for additional research. In many of the studies referenced, it is difficult to determine the pedagogical practices used in course design and delivery. Research shows the importance of student-student and student-teacher interaction in online learning, and the positive impact of these variables on student learning (Bernard, Borokhovski, Schmid, Tamim, & Abrami, 2014). Some researchers note that while many studies comparing online and traditional classroom learning exist, the methodologies and design issues make it challenging to explain the results conclusively (Mollenkopf, Vu, Crow, & Black, 2017). For example, some online courses may be structured in a variety of ways, i.e. self-paced, instructor-led and may be classified as synchronous or asynchronous (Moore, Dickson-Deane, Galyan, 2011)

Another gap in the literature is the failure to use a common language across studies to define the learning environment. This issue is explored extensively in a 2011 study by Moore, Dickson-Deane, and Galyan. Here, the authors examine the differences between e-learning, online learning, and distance learning in the literature, and how the terminology is often used interchangeably despite the variances in characteristics that define each. The authors also discuss the variability in the terms “course” versus “program”. This variability in the literature presents a challenge when attempting to compare one study of online learning to another (Moore, Dickson-Deane, & Galyan, 2011).

Finally, much of the literature in higher education focuses on undergraduate-level classes within the United States. Little research is available on outcomes in graduate-level classes as well as general information on student learning outcomes and perceptions of online learning outside of the U.S.

As we look to the future, there are additional questions to explore in the area of online learning. Overall, this research led to questions related to learning design when comparing the two modalities in higher education. Further research is needed to investigate the instructional strategies used to enhance student learning, especially in students with weaker academic preparation or from underrepresented backgrounds. Given the integral role that online learning is expected to play in the future of higher education in the United States, it may be even more critical to move beyond comparisons of online versus face to face. Instead, choosing to focus on sound pedagogical quality with consideration for the mode of delivery as a means for promoting positive learning outcomes.

Allen, I.E., Seaman, J., Poulin, R., & Straut, T. (2016). Online Report Card: Tracking Online Education in the United States [PDF file]. Babson Survey Research Group.   http://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/onlinereportcard.pdf

Angelino, L. M., Williams, F. K., & Natvig, D. (2007). Strategies to engage online students and reduce attrition rates.  The Journal of Educators Online , 4(2).

Ashby, J., Sadera, W.A., & McNary, S.W. (2011). Comparing student success between developmental math courses offered online, blended, and face-to-face.  Journal of Interactive Online Learning , 10(3), 128-140.

Bernard, R.M., Borokhovski, E., Schmid, R.F., Tamim, R.M., & Abrami, P.C. (2014). A meta-analysis of blended learning and technology use in higher education: From the general to the applied.  Journal of Computing in Higher Education , 26(1), 87-122.

Cavanaugh, J.K. & Jacquemin, S.J. (2015). A large sample comparison of grade based student learning outcomes in online vs. face-fo-face courses.  Journal of Asynchronous Learning Network,  19(2).

Clinefelter, D. L., & Aslanian, C. B. (2015). Online college students 2015: Comprehensive data on demands and preferences.   https://www.learninghouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/OnlineCollegeStudents2015.pdf

Golubovskaya, E.A., Tikhonova, E.V., & Mekeko, N.M. (2019). Measuring learning outcome and students’ satisfaction in ELT (e-learning against conventional learning). Paper presented the ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, 34-38. Doi: 10.1145/3337682.3337704

Kemp, N. & Grieve, R. (2014). Face-to-face or face-to-screen? Undergraduates’ opinions and test performance in classroom vs. online learning.  Frontiers in Psychology , 5. Doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01278

Lyke, J., & Frank, M. (2012). Comparison of student learning outcomes in online and traditional classroom environments in a psychology course. (Cover story).  Journal of Instructional Psychology , 39(3/4), 245-250.

Mayadas, F., Miller, G. & Senner, J.  Definitions of E-Learning Courses and Programs Version 2.0.  Online Learning Consortium.  https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/updated-e-learning-definitions-2/

Means, B., Toyama, Y., Murphy, R., Bakia, M., & Jones, K. (2010). Evaluation of evidence-based practices in online learning: A meta-analysis and review of online learning studies. US Department of Education.  https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf

Mollenkopf, D., Vu, P., Crow, S, & Black, C. (2017). Does online learning deliver? A comparison of student teacher outcomes from candidates in face to face and online program pathways.  Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration.  20(1).

Moore, J.L., Dickson-Deane, C., & Galyan, K. (2011). E-Learning, online learning, and distance learning environments: Are they the same?  The Internet and Higher Education . 14(2), 129-135.

Nichols, J., Shaffer, B., & Shockey, K. (2003). Changing the face of instruction: Is online or in-class more effective?   College & Research Libraries , 64(5), 378–388.  https://doi-org.proxy2.library.illinois.edu/10.5860/crl.64.5.378

Parsons-Pollard, N., Lacks, T.R., & Grant, P.H. (2008). A comparative assessment of student learning outcomes in large online and traditional campus based introduction to criminal justice courses.  Criminal Justice Studies , 2, 225-239.

Pearson North America. (2018, June 25).  How Online Learning Affects the Lives of Students . YouTube.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPDMagf_oAE

Protopsaltis, S., & Baum, S. (2019). Does online education live up to its promise? A look at the evidence and implications for federal policy [PDF file].   http://mason.gmu.edu/~sprotops/OnlineEd.pdf

Saad, L., Busteed, B., & Ogisi, M. (October 15, 2013). In U.S., Online Education Rated Best for Value and Options.  https://news.gallup.com/poll/165425/online-education-rated-best-value-options.aspx

Stack, S. (2015). Learning Outcomes in an Online vs Traditional Course.  International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning , 9(1).

Seaman, J.E., Allen, I.E., & Seaman, J. (2018). Grade Increase: Tracking Distance Education in the United States [PDF file]. Babson Survey Research Group.  http://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/gradeincrease.pdf

Slover, E. & Mandernach, J. (2018). Beyond Online versus Face-to-Face Comparisons: The Interaction of Student Age and Mode of Instruction on Academic Achievement.  Journal of Educators Online,  15(1) .  https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1168945.pdf

Summers, J., Waigandt, A., & Whittaker, T. (2005). A Comparison of Student Achievement and Satisfaction in an Online Versus a Traditional Face-to-Face Statistics Class.  Innovative Higher Education , 29(3), 233–250.  https://doi-org.proxy2.library.illinois.edu/10.1007/s10755-005-1938-x

Tichavsky, L.P., Hunt, A., Driscoll, A., & Jicha, K. (2015). “It’s just nice having a real teacher”: Student perceptions of online versus face-to-face instruction.  International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.  9(2).

Wiley Education Services. (n.d.).  Top challenges facing U.S. higher education.  https://edservices.wiley.com/top-higher-education-challenges/

July 17, 2020

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Classroom vs. Online Education: Which One Is Better for You?

Both online learning and on-campus learning have pros and cons. The real question you might ask is: Which is better for me?

There are many factors to consider when determining which style of learning will fit you. Online learning has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, leading more students to embrace it.

Find out more about online vs. classroom education, what factors to consider, and how to choose.

What to Consider When Weighing Online vs. Classroom Learning

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether to attend an on-campus or an online program. Among the things to examine are:

Your Work Status

If you are balancing a full-time job and going to school, you may need a degree program that suits your busy schedule. On the other hand, a flexible schedule may be less important for full-time students. Which statement is most true for you?

☑ I work full time and need a flexible program that fits with my schedule.

Online education may be right for you.

☑ I work part time and have a more flexible schedule.

Either online or on-campus will work well for you. For students who have deep ties to where they live—due to work, family, or other reasons—distance learning provides access to programs virtually all over the world.

Where You Live

Which statement is most true for you?

☑ Moving isn’t an option.

Online may be a better option, especially if your local university doesn’t offer a program that interests you.

☑ I can live anywhere.

Either online or on-campus will work well for you.

Your Family Situation

Add family into the mix of balancing work, life, and school, and you need a program that allows you to study on your schedule:

☑ I have a family, so I need to take classes when my house is quiet.

Online education may be better for you.

☑ Family obligations aren’t a big issue for me.

Your Learning Style

Online learning provides many channels through which students and instructors interact with each other, including email, online chat, and video conferences. On-campus education provides communication through the same channels with the addition of in-person, in-classroom opportunities. Which statement is most true for you?

☑ I am comfortable communicating through email, chat, and video conferencing.

☑ I prefer in-person communication.

On-campus will probably suit you better.

There are many more factors to consider as you explore your options. Most importantly, you’ll want to find a college that offers a variety of programs so that you can find a degree that lines up with your career goals. For example, Purdue Global offers more than 175 online programs.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the drive toward virtual learning, the trend has been building. That trend doesn’t mean that one option is better than the other; rather, technology has made it possible for universities to reach a wider audience. And the wider audience is responding to increased opportunities.

>> Read “ 3 Benefits of Online Learning ”

Quality of Online Learning vs. In-Class Learning

Before the pandemic, postgraduate online students tended to be older and studying part-time; they had to balance jobs and family, and they were ready for the rigors of distance learning.

Studies of post-pandemic learning are just now being done. One study indicates that online instruction appears effective in large introductory classes since students can use chats and virtual feedback to raise questions and connect in a more intimate format than giant lecture halls.

Another study indicates that online learning confers degrees more quickly than traditional classroom learning.

>> Read “ The Online College Student's Guide to Success: Tips, Tools, and Resources ”

Online Programs Can Provide Greater Convenience

The convenience and flexibility of online learning allows you to study any time, virtually anywhere you have an internet connection. It's an ideal solution for people with demanding work schedules and family obligations. In many situations, you can pause the content or go back to a portion to refresh your memory. This is incredibly helpful when you need to spend extra time on a challenging topic.

>> Read “ Time Management Tips for Busy College Students ”

Only you can decide whether online education or an on-campus college is best for you.

Visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions about the online learning experience, or request more information .

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

About the Author

Purdue Global

Earn a degree you're proud of and employers respect at Purdue Global, Purdue's online university for working adults. Accredited and online, Purdue Global gives you the flexibility and support you need to come back and move your career forward. Choose from 175+ programs, all backed by the power of Purdue.

• General Education
• Legal Studies & Public Policy
• Online Learning

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Learn more about online programs at Purdue Global and download our program guide.

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

An Online Class VS An Offline Class Comparative Essay Example

I would like to compare an online class and an offline class in this essay. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are having more online classes than offline classes. I believe that someone will want to know how online and offline affects them. Hence, I will talk about the pros and cons about online and offline classes so that you can know how it affects you. 

First, I would like to talk about the pros and cons of online classes. Online classes can reduce problems like bullying. Because we are having online classes, students have less chance to meet each other, which also have less chance to bully. Furthermore, students can communicate with teachers through different methods. Such as text, audio, and video that students haven’t done before. From now on, I will talk about cons. The screen light from the electronic device is the problem. Since you are looking at the screen for a long time, it will damage your eyes. Also, students will not focus on the class because of their distractions such as games, YouTube, and chats.  

Secondly, I will talk about the pros and cons of offline classes. Unlike online classes, students can focus well in school because there are less distractions. Also, when students have problems, teachers can help them quickly. In my opinion, offline has more pros than cons. But, I’ll move on to the cons. Students might feel less comfortable than having online classes. Because they would have to wear a uniform, carry heavy books, and wear masks for a whole day. The rate of getting COVID-19 is high because there are a lot of students and teachers in one place. 

In conclusion, there are both advantages and disadvantages of online and offline classes. You can’t be satisfied with every single thing you do. I wish my answers helped you. Now, I want to ask you, do you prefer online or offline? Why? For me, it changes every time, sometimes I like online, sometimes I like offline.

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