In-Person Learning Among College Students Reimagined

While online learning gained prominence during and following the pandemic, the research shows that it can’t replicate the engagement and sense of belonging traditional, in-person learning fosters and which ultimately offers a richer learning experience.

Following the pandemic, education has experienced profound shifts and transformations. While online learning became the norm throughout the pandemic, a growing body of research from 2023 onward indicates renewed interest among college students for returning to in-person learning environments. Recognition of the unique benefits face-to-face interaction offers is driving this shift, as it’s impossible to fully replicate these benefits in a virtual setting. The latest research suggests in-person training has substantial benefits over other learning modalities when it comes to providing an enhanced learning experience that fosters deeper engagement and connection.

Heading Back to the Classroom

One of the primary reasons for this resurgence of interest in face-to-face learning is the enhanced interaction and engagement it offers. According to the Student Voice Survey of July 3, 2024 the majority (58%) of college students preferred the in-person/face-to-face modality. Additionally, a 2023 study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, found students who participate in face-to-face classes tend to have more meaningful interactions with their peers and instructors, leading to improved understanding and retention of course material.

The study reinforces the idea that in-person classes offer unique advantages that contribute to a more effective and satisfying educational experience. Moreover, a meta-analysis published in a 2023 issue of Behavioral Sciences concluded that “student engagement plays an important role in shaping educational achievement in the higher education system, and factors influencing student engagement may have profound and long-lasting implications for student performance and learning outcomes.”

Another significant advantage of in-person learning is the sense of community and belonging it fosters. Research findings published in a 2022 issue of SN Computer Science found students preferred in-person teaching for the primary belief that the classroom is a more effective learning environment.

Even though students admitted that commuting to college was challenging, the benefits of effective in-person learning and the corresponding socialization that goes along with being among peers were considered far more important. Additionally, “students value face-to-face relationships and consider their importance for learning and personality development. They also expressed worries regarding the prolonged absence of face-to-face communication and addiction to technology on psychological health and human relationships.”

Strategic Ways to Enhance In-Person Learning

One effective strategy faculty can employ to enhance face-to-face learning is integrating active learning techniques into their teaching practices. Active learning, which emphasizes student engagement through discussions, group work and problem-solving activities, encourages critical thinking and collaboration. In a postpandemic setting, where students may have become accustomed to passive learning during remote education, actively participating in class helps rebuild their cognitive and social skills.

Faculty can use techniques like think-pair-share, debates or case studies to encourage active involvement, fostering a more dynamic and interactive learning environment. By intentionally designing lessons that require students to apply knowledge, instructors create opportunities for deeper learning and better retention of material. Such an approach also supports different learning styles, as it combines visual, auditory and kinaesthetic activities, making the learning process more inclusive. Faculty have the opportunity to integrate real-world examples and hands-on experiences, which are particularly effective for graduate students who need to apply theory to practice.

These methods not only enhance comprehension but also prepare students for real-life challenges in their respective fields. Since good teaching involves inclusive teaching, face-to-face learning is central to a well-designed, structured and taught course providing students with multiple ways to participate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, renewed interest in in-person learning reflects a recognition of its unique benefits that go beyond online education’s capabilities. Research indicates that face-to-face learning environments foster deeper engagement, meaningful interactions and a stronger sense of community among students. These benefits are particularly important for enhancing understanding, retention of material and overall academic performance.

Moreover, the socialization and personal development that occur in face-to-face settings contribute significantly to students’ psychological well-being and sense of belonging. Despite the convenience of online learning, many students and adult learners prefer the structured environment and direct interactions of traditional classroom settings.

As education continues to evolve post-pandemic, it is evident that in-person learning remains a vital component of the educational landscape. The unique advantages it offers are irreplaceable and essential for a comprehensive educational experience. These studies suggest that while online classes have their place and offer flexibility, many students still favor the traditional in-person classroom experience for its interactive, engaging and socially enriching qualities.

Note: Research provided for this article was provided by Rachel Persaud, Business Strategist at the New Jersey Innovation Institute.

References

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Gross, G., Ling, R., Richardson, B. & Quan, N. (2022). In-Person or Virtual Training?: Comparing the Effectiveness of Community-Based Training. American Journal of Distance Education, 37(1), 66–77. https://doi.org/10.1080/08923647.2022.2029090

Li J, Xue E. Dynamic Interaction between Student Learning Behaviour and Learning Environment: Meta-Analysis of Student Engagement and Its Influencing Factors. Behav Sci (Basel). 2023 Jan 9;13(1):59. doi: 10.3390/bs13010059. PMID: 36661631; PMCID: PMC9855184.

Mehner, L., Rothenbusch, S., & Kauffeld, S. (2024). How to maximize the impact of workplace training: a mixed-method analysis of social support, training transfer and knowledge sharing. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/1359432X.2024.2319082

Photopoulos P., Tsonos C, Stavrakas I, Triantis D. Remote and In-Person Learning: Utility Versus Social Experience. SN Comput Sci. 2023;4(2):116. doi: 10.1007/s42979-022-01539-6. Epub 2022 Dec 21. PMID: 36573208; PMCID: PMC9769479.

Flaherty, C. (2024, July 3). Survey: The college student academic experience. Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs. https://www.insidehighered.com/news/student-success/academic-life/2024/07/03/survey-college-student-academic-experience#

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