Online classes have been rising in popularity over the last few years. With more kids with access to better internet and computer technology, the roster for virtual classes has grown. 

There are lots of reasons students choose to take online classes. Those reasons can range from low class interest to the convenience of a portable class.

Most students see more benefits in virtual education than teachers do. From a student’s perspective, online classes provide easier material, the ability to get ahead in the class, and the ability to work faster than an in-person class. 

Virtual classes also provide opportunities that would otherwise be lost if not hosted online. An anonymous student shared, “They told me it was going to be an in-person class but only two people signed up for it.” Low-popularity classes can get a second chance when they are digital and the students interested do not have to sacrifice taking the class.

From a teacher's perspective, virtual classes pose more problems than benefits. The classes do not challenge students, lack social interaction, and complications with physical activities. One professional educator explained, “...you can’t be challenged the same way that you can in a regular classroom…you can’t really develop the same relationship with both your instructor and your peers.” Online classes simply just lack key things that make traditional classes effective. 

There will always be certain instances where online classes are the better option for a particular student. It does not necessarily mean for students to switch to virtual classes simply because they want to. An anonymous teacher ended with, “It’s a good option for people that can’t fit in the traditional education model."