Which do you prefer for your courses, online classes or more interpersonal settings? Many college students in today's society have the option of taking an online course or an in-person course. Many students have different preferences. Online courses are more difficult than a real classroom course. Student communication is very different. When taking an online course the student must be more self-sufficient, autonomous and must communicate with the teacher via email or phone call. In an in-person course, students can communicate in person with the professor or teacher. The student is able to ask questions and actually participate in the lesson. They also have the privilege of communicating with other students in their class and students get more practical opportunities. Online students have no hands-on experience; everything they do must be communicated through electronics. According to (Op-Ed, July 20), Mark Edmundson was obsessed with math in high school. “When I turned to a Stanford program that offers online courses to gifted young people. I started the program with enthusiasm, but soon felt alone and unsupported. I had no one to impress or disappoint. I struggled to stay motivated. It was impersonal and transactional and almost destroyed my obsession. Just like Mark, many students can relate to the inability to succeed while taking an online course. “A face-to-face classroom encounter imposes accountability, inspires commitment, and promotes academic responsibility.” Taking classroom courses can definitely help you more than students know; you are able to better understand the material your professor may be teaching. For example, mathematics is a course you may not want to take online, especially...... middle of paper....... It is better to attend classes face-to-face because it maintains a more interactive conversation between the instructor and student. In conclusion, in-person classes are a greater advantage because online courses are more of a pass-or-fail course. A face-to-face class is about knowing the material, understanding it, and giving you the opportunity to gain skills on how to interact with different people. This is something you may need to know long term for a job. It teaches you more than just a subject; teaches you the skills you need for life. Word Count: 928 Works Cited Rivera, Carla. “Study says many online students prefer in-person classes.” Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, April 25, 2013. Web. March 12, 2014. “Classroom vs. Online Learning.” The New York Times. The New York Times, July 24, 2012. Web. March 13. 2014.