Which is Better for You: Online Coding Classes or Private Tutoring?
So you want to learn how to code. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve been dabbling in coding for a while but never really got serious about it, the options can be overwhelming. Do you take an online class? Do you hire a private tutor? Which is better for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare and contrast online coding classes and private tutoring, so that you can make the best decision for your learning style and goals!
Online Coding Classes
We’ll start with online coding classes. These have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason! They’re usually more affordable than private tutoring, and you can learn at your own pace and on your own time. In addition, online courses typically offer a community forum where you can ask questions and get help from other students and the instructor.
Pros of Online Coding Classes
Let’s start with the advantages of online coding classes for kids. We’ve outlined some of them below. They are:
– More affordable than private tutoring: This is probably the biggest advantage of online coding classes. They are typically much more affordable than hiring a private tutor, especially if you’re paying per class or per month.
– You can learn at your own pace: One of the great things about online classes is that you can usually learn at your own pace. If you want to take things slow and really understand the material, you can do that. Or if you want to power through and get it done quickly, you can do that too.
– You can learn on your own time: Online classes also offer the advantage of being able to learn on your own time. If you have a busy schedule, you can usually find a time that works for you to do the class.
– Community forums: Most online courses also have community forums where you can ask questions and get help from other students and the instructor. This can be a great way to get help when you’re stuck, or just to chat with other people who are learning to code.
Cons of Online Coding Classes
Now let’s talk about some of the disadvantages of online coding classes. They are:
– Less personal interaction: One of the downsides of online coding classes for kids is that there is less personal interaction than with a private tutor. If you’re someone who learns best by asking questions and getting immediate feedback, you might find online classes more challenging.
– Can be easy to get behind: Another downside of online coding classes is that it can be easy to get behind. If you miss a class or two, it can be hard to catch up. And if you’re not understanding the material, it can be tough to keep going.
– Not everyone is a good fit: Online classes are not for everyone. Some people learn best in a more traditional classroom setting, and others just don’t like learning online. If you’re not sure if online classes are right for you, it might be worth trying one before you commit to anything.
-Attention span: For some kids, it can be hard to focus on an online class for an hour or more. If your child has a shorter attention span, online classes might not be the best fit.
Private Tutoring
Now let’s talk about private tutoring. Private tutors can be a great option for kids who want more personal attention, or who learn best in a one-on-one setting. Tutors can also help kids who are struggling in a particular subject, or who want to get ahead. AP computer science tutoring for instance is a useful option for kids preparing for the AP computer science exam.
Pros of Private Tutoring
Let’s start with the advantages of private tutoring which are:
– More personal attention: With private tutoring, your child will get more personal attention than in a traditional classroom setting. This can be incredibly beneficial, especially if your child is struggling in a particular subject.
– One-on-one setting: Private tutoring also takes place in a one-on-one setting, which can be ideal for some kids. If your child is shy or doesn’t like asking questions in front of other people, this can be a great option.
– Can help kids who are struggling: Private tutors can also be a great option for kids who are struggling in school. If your child is having trouble keeping up, a tutor can help them catch up.
– Tailored to your child’s needs: Private tutoring is also tailored to your child’s individual needs. If your child has a learning disability, for instance, a tutor can help them learn in a way that is best for them.
-Flexible scheduling: Private tutors can also be more flexible with their scheduling than online classes. If your child has a busy schedule, a tutor can work around their commitments.
Cons of Private Tutoring
Private tutoring also has its disadvantages and they are:
– More expensive: One of the biggest disadvantages of private tutoring is that it is more expensive than online classes. If you’re on a budget, online classes might be a better option.
– Can be difficult to find a good tutor: Another disadvantage of private tutoring is that it can be difficult to find a good tutor. Not all tutors are created equal, and it can take some trial and error to find one that is a good fit for your child.
– Your child still has to do the work: Private tutoring is not a magic bullet. Your child will still have to do the work, and they might not see results if they’re not willing to put in the effort.
Which of Them is Better for You?
So, which is better for you: online coding classes or private tutoring? The answer depends on your child’s needs and learning style. If your child is struggling in a particular subject, or if they need more personal attention, private tutoring might be the best option. On the other hand, if you’re on a budget or your child is a good self-starter, online classes might be a better fit. Ultimately, the best option is the one that works best for your child.
If you’re still not sure which option is right for your child, why not try both? You can always start with online classes and switch to private tutoring if you feel like it’s not a good fit. Or, you can try private tutoring for a particular subject and supplement it with online classes in other subjects. There are many different ways to combine both options to meet your child’s needs. Whichever option you choose, make sure to do your research and find a reputable provider. And don’t forget, your child will still need to put in the effort to learn to code! They won’t be able to do it overnight, but with time and practice, they’ll get there.
Happy learning!
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
