I’m often asked about the differences between attending class virtually versus in person.
Both options have value and truly depend upon the individual and their circumstance. In other words, what works for one person may not work for the next. So, let’s examine the differences.
In-Person Classes
Attending class in person has one obvious advantage over attending virtually and that is interaction. When students are physically seated together in the classroom, they can talk oneon- one with fellow students during breaks, ask instructors questions individually, and interact in small-group activities. Students tend to gather during lunch or even in the evenings at their hotels for study sessions, allowing them to continue conversations beyond the 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. instruction time.
Another advantage is the ability to spend time in our inspection room. Many of our courses have sessions based in the inspection room where students can look at and touch equipment. Beyond these sessions, which may be instructor- led or held in a small-group setting, students can also wander into the room during breaks or before class begins each day to get a closer look at the equipment, valves, corrosion examples, etc., that we have on display.
Of course, attending in person does require time away from home and travel expenses, which are not always feasible for everyone. We know this is a disadvantage, but it does allow students to stay focused on their classroom work.
Virtual Classes
When attending a virtual class, students and/or employers definitely see cost savings in travel expenses and in employees being away from both work and home. And although tuition for a virtual class is higher than for an in-person class, it is not comparable to the cost of travel. Virtual classes also allow students who may not be able to travel to the U.S. due to travel restrictions, such as being unable to obtain a visa interview in a timely manner, to attend training.
Although training topics are the same regardless of the type of class attended, agendas are slightly adjusted to account for the different time zones where our students are located, which can be difficult for some. All virtual classes are taught from our Columbus, Ohio, campus, which is in Eastern Time, so there could be up to a 13-hour difference. Students may also find themselves distracted by work or home life since they are still in their day-to-day environments.
Understanding that our students are individuals with different ways they each learn best is why we continue to work to improve our training methods, whether in person or virtual. Students need to consider what each delivery style offers and how it will best help them accomplish the task at hand – learning the material, passing the exam, and becoming the best inspector they can be!