Learning German Online or in the Classroom? The Pros and Cons of the Couch Revolution

Technology has revolutionized almost every aspect of our lives — and education is no exception. More and more people are choosing to learn German comfortably from home, while the traditional classroom is slowly losing its former dominance.

But can online lessons really replace the atmosphere of a classroom? Or is this just a passing trend?

Let’s take a light-hearted look at the advantages and disadvantages of this new couch revolution.

Online classes:

A girl taking a online course

Advantages:

• Pyjama-friendly – ​​Let’s be honest: there’s no better feeling than learning German in your pyjamas. No one knows what you’re wearing below the camera. All those accusatives somehow become easier when you feel relaxed..

  
  

• No travel time wasted – Forget traffic jams, waiting for buses, or freezing at the bus stop. Your online German class starts and ends with just one click.

  
  

• The power of technology – You always have lesson recordings, tests, and apps at hand. If you’ve forgotten how to use the subjunctive II, YouTube will gladly help you out

Disadvantages:

• Technical issues – We've all been there. In the middle of explaining conjunctiva, your internet connection breaks. The professor disappears, and you are left alone with your doubts and frustrations.

  
  

• Lack of Social Contact – Even though everything is fast and efficient, sometimes you miss human contact and that shared pang when everyone in the classroom collectively groans when the professor says “perfect”.

  
  

Classroom:

A ordinary classroom

Advantages:

• Better concentration – When you're in the classroom, there's no running away. The professor is there, and you have nowhere to hide your gaze when he asks you directly. There is no multitasking, but all attention is given to the language.

  
  

• Physical Interaction – It's easy to get into a discussion when you're face to face with a group of people. And it is easier to explain the misunderstood part when someone can directly draw the solution for you on the board.

Disadvantages:

• No luxury of a couch – Of course, you have to get out of the house, put on something decent, and try not to be late. The good old world of the classroom has its own rules that we must follow.

  
  

  In the end, whatever you choose, the most important thing is that you enjoy learning. Good luck with your studies - viel Glück!

  
  

  Are you interested in learning German? Book your first online class and start learning as soon as possible! Click here to contact me.