In-person classes have been a staple of Lasell University student experience for many years, but with the flexibility of online classes, many students are torn between which is more beneficial and which they prefer.
Online classes
Online classes have become an essential part of modern education, offering flexibility and accessibility that traditional classrooms can’t always match. During the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning took off and quickly became the norm for many high schools and colleges.
For many students, online courses make higher education more possible. They’re especially useful for those who can’t make a daily commute to campus, balance work or family responsibilities, or have health concerns that make in-person attendance difficult.
They also create opportunities to earn credits during semesters when campus access is limited, such as the winter or summer semesters.
Even with the flexibility that online classes offer, they do require self-discipline and time management. For example, when I took HIST104 over the summer, the format was completely online. The class was manageable and convenient as I could do it while I was at work, but the lack of firm deadlines challenged my motivation. It made me remember that while online classes give students control over their pace, the freedom can sometimes require more accountability and structure than an in-person class.
Even with that challenge, I think online learning is a great option and something colleges should continue to expand. Not every student learns the same way or has the same schedule, so offering both in-person and online versions of classes gives everyone the ability to succeed.
In-person classes
In-person classes have always been better for my learning style. I enjoy being in class and listening to others’ points of view, whereas if we are on a Zoom call, it is rare to have students interact, and most times the professor will simply present what they are teaching. As I am sure many other students have been guilty of falling asleep during an online class, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now that we have the choice of whether we can be in class or look at a computer screen, I will forever choose human interaction. Though that’s not to say Zoom is not helpful in some cases, like keeping in touch with family and friends far away, I do not think it is a good forum for classes, especially at a place like Lasell, where collaboration is key in our classes.
It is nearly impossible to keep a debate going over Zoom, and professors always have a hard time with students not having their camera on, which makes sense. I don’t want to put my camera on for a bunch of people to stare at me.
Also, there are Wi-Fi issues to consider. You might have to miss an entire class just because your Wi-Fi is not working. If you have class in person, it is not often that you will have Wi-Fi struggles. Most importantly, being on our screens is proven to have a negative effect on our brains and mental well-being, and if we are in school to improve our brains and knowledge, what is the point of having Zoom all the time?
Though a Zoom class for when the professor is sick is a valid reason, it is not beneficial in the long run and, in fact, does more harm than good.
–Nov. 4, 2025–
