Nowadays, we probably all have a friend, family member, or coworker who has taken an online class. Most of us have even tried it ourselves. The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely put the spotlight on online learning, for better or for worse! But what about online group classes specifically? What are they like? Do they really work?

Learning preferences can vary from a person to another. Some people prefer one-on-one classes, others learn better within a group of students who share the same objectives. Every method of learning has pros and cons. Online group classes though have received a lot of bad reputation lately because people have grown tired of virtual experiences. However, online group classes remain an amazing learning tool that are also much cheaper than one-on-one classes.

Are you considering taking a group class yourself? Let’s look at some of the many benefits you could enjoy by enrolling in a group class, especially a virtual one!

9 Benefits Of Taking Online Group Classes

Are you curious about online group classes? A new semester is about to start! Have a look at our list of 9 benefits of taking online group classes and decide for yourself if it would be beneficial for you to enroll insha’Allah!

1. A Source Of Encouragement

Learning is difficult no matter what topic you are after. The monotony of learning on your own can be frustrating sometimes, so having a group of other students can encourage you to keep going.

2. Eliminates Possible Difficulties

Learning within a group eliminates many of the obstacles you face, especially after the class is over. Whenever you find something that you don’t understand and can’t possibly reach out to the teacher until the next class, contacting a fellow student within your group can help you understand.

This will save you so much time and clear out the confusions you might face. Some students even agree that when a fellow colleague explains something confusing in the curriculum, they understand it faster!

3. So Much In Common!

Having people who share the same interest and understanding as you is priceless. Since you are learning the same subject on the same level, you have so much in common with your peers! This will come in handy when you miss a class or want someone to direct you in some areas.

4. Sharpens Your Communication Skills

With group classes, you communicate with different people, which will eventually sharpen your communication skills. This will allow you to test your skills in dealing with different attitudes, backgrounds, cultures, and personalities.

5. Fills Gaps In Class Notes

In class, students never take identical notes! Learning in a group is really beneficial in this regard. If you aren’t a great note-taker, you may watch how other students take notes and correct any mistakes you have. If you’re a good note-taker, you can assist your classmates to fill in the gaps with their notes.

This is also helpful when you miss a class, you get to copy the notes from someone who has been there.

6. Making New Friendships!

Classes are a great way of making new friendships. Since you take the same class, you probably share the same interests which is a great start already! Some people insist on taking group classes to increase their communication and bond with new people.

This is more apparent now after the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. People spend most of their time at home not interacting with new people. So, online group classes allow you to interact with new people and learn something at the same time.

7. Helpful Group Discussions

Discussions in classes are an avoidable part of the learning process. Discussions can happen between you and your one-on-tutor as well, however, group discussions have their spark. It is extremely beneficial to open up and discover what other people think of a subject. This can introduce you to a new universe of knowledge, approaches, perspectives and opinions within a small amount of time.

8. Online Learning Can Be More Interactive Than Offline

Taking a group class on whichever topic you like online can be more interactive than taking it offline. You can learn with videos, audio, texts, in a much easier and convenient way than offline. Even though you don’t see your peers face-to-face (although technically you do now with Zoom and other video conferencing platforms!), your tutor can make it more interactive than real classes and really engage their students.

9. A Chance To Improve Your Teamwork Skills

Working in teams and managing teamwork is a valuable talent in today’s world. When you attend online group classes, you will have the opportunity to collaborate on projects and tasks in order to analyze your teamwork skills and improve any areas of weakness you may have. You will also be surprised by how many opportunities there are for teamwork when taking online group classes!

Still reading? It looks like you are almost convinced that an online group class could be for you 🙂 Keep reading to learn how to pick the right online group class for you!

How To Pick The Right Online Group Class For You?

Some people may have a negative attitude towards group classes due to past experiences. In order to eliminate the chances of having a negative experience, you need to know how to pick the right group class for you. Here are some tips you can consider:

1. The Smaller The Better

Group classes are great, but those that have a high number of students enrolled can be problematic, especially if you are not the kind to easily engage. When you’re picking a group class for the next topic you want to learn, make sure it’s a small and defined number. Small classes have better attention from the teacher and eliminate the distractions huge numbers bring along.

2. Professional Tutor

Not all tutors are well-trained to handle group learning. Make sure to review the tutor background and experience page on the course website you’re applying on. Tutors who have previous experience in handling group classes ensure that your experience will be a good one.

3. Defined Learning Outcomes

Make sure to check the learning outcomes associated with the course. Are they exactly what you want to learn by the end of the course duration? If yes, press that button! If not, it’s probably going to waste your time. If you are not sure, reach our to the Support Team or Customer Service of the school or institute offering to class and ask for guidance to make the best decision.

4. Make Sure The Schedule Fits You

Before you enroll, most courses disclose their schedules. This is something you should double-check before enrolling in the course. Even though most sessions will be recorded for later study, it is always better to attend online group classes live, and review recordings as needed. Enrolling in an online class therefore means committing to attending the sessions live in order to reap the benefits mentioned above. If you have to miss live sessions, make sure to catch up before the next class and to reach out to your teacher and/or classmates for clarification.

It is significant to mention that group classes usually include individual and/or group projects and tasks that you must complete as well. Make sure you allot time for that in your schedule too so as to not waste the gained benefits as well as your teacher’s and peers’ time.

Are you ready to start a new group class that is beneficial and right for you? Give it a shot right away!

Related Questions

Is studying with a group better than studying alone?

Studying in a group can be better than studying alone. Depending on your class, studying in a group might help you prevent procrastination. It can help you grow as a student, person, and professional by pushing you to think creatively and develop strong communication skills, both of which aid in the refinement of your understanding of the content. When students ask questions in class, it can clarify things or prompt the teacher to teach from a different angle that helps you understand better.

What about group classes for kids? Does it work?

Yes, kids can actually really thrive in group classes online! It allows them to learn with peers, make new friends, experience group assignments and teamwork, as well as enjoy the comfort and safety of their home while still interacting with others. This is what our Homeschool Program and Sunday School Program are all about!