Time constraints and the lack of nearby language courses motivate both adults and children to learn German online. The remote learning format allows lessons to be conducted at flexible times and from any location. But is this option truly effective? Or are in-person group courses the better choice? In this article, we compare online and offline German courses and explore the advantages and disadvantages of both learning methods.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Online German Courses
Those who choose a remote learning format can usually find a program that matches their language proficiency level with ease. Learners can opt for a course that includes interaction with teachers and classmates through online classrooms or group chats.
Advantages of Online Courses:
- Universal Accessibility: German can be learned conveniently from home, on vacation, or during business trips.
- Time Savings: No commuting is required — just a laptop or PC and internet access to attend lessons.
- Financial Benefits: Online courses are generally more affordable than in-person classes, and there are no travel expenses.
- Parental Supervision: Parents can monitor their children’s progress in online learning and adjust the program as needed.
Disadvantages of Learning a Foreign Language Online:
- Distractions: Various interruptions can make it harder to absorb new content.
- Technical Issues: There is always a risk of technical problems, such as a slow internet connection during lessons.
- Slower Progress: Mastering challenging topics may take longer.
- Limited Social Interaction: The lack of in-person engagement can negatively affect the social aspect of learning.
Learning German online requires strong motivation and self-discipline. Those who choose to study independently must be prepared to overcome inertia, fatigue, and a lack of inspiration. Speaking practice is a crucial part of language acquisition, so it is beneficial to supplement online courses with conversation partners or language clubs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Offline German Courses
Despite the growing popularity of online courses, in-person classes remain in demand among both adults and children. Traditional classroom instruction offers several advantages, such as:
- Structured Schedules: A fixed timetable helps learners stay disciplined.
- Speaking Practice: Direct interaction with teachers and classmates enables students to express opinions, learn the correct use of words and expressions in specific contexts, and improve listening skills.
- Customized Learning Materials: Teaching methods and materials can be adapted to meet individual needs.
- Immediate Feedback: Learners receive corrections and pronunciation support on the spot.
On the downside, in-person courses are usually more expensive than remote learning. Students and their parents often have to cover the cost of learning materials. Additionally, scheduling lessons requires careful time management.
Online and Offline Classes at IISC
Regardless of the chosen learning method, motivation, discipline, and consistent practice are key to success. The International Institute for Studies and Cooperation offers German courses for children and adults at different proficiency levels — from A1 to C1. Students can choose between online, in-person, and hybrid learning formats.
Our language schools are located in Berlin and Braunschweig. We offer:
- Small group lessons for children (4-8 students), held after school.
- Intensive courses for adults, with 9 or 20 class sessions per week (groups of 8-20 students).
- Evening courses with four class sessions per week.
Online classes are conducted live via Microsoft Teams. Each participant can select a convenient class time — morning or afternoon. Online sessions last 3.5 to 4 hours. Before the course starts, a placement test is conducted to assess language proficiency and assign students to the appropriate group.
Course start and end dates, tuition fees, schedules, and a list of required textbooks are available on our website. For more details and to register, please use the contact form on our website.