Online Vs. Offline Dilemma: Which is the Better Option?

Choosing between online and offline mode will depend on a number of factors like your location, engagements, financial condition, knowledge level and interests.

• Both online and offline modes are equally good; they have their own merits and demerits. Generally, we are accustomed to offline mode of learning, but things are changing very fast, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• One of the most important criteria in learning is the environment. Offline mode has the advantage of providing with a congenial learning environment. Also, you can take the advantage by forming a group with the fellow aspirants. This offers an element of synergy to your preparation.
• With the advent of technology, people at far-off places too can enjoy the education benefits of the coaching institute, without coming to the place where there is coaching. In this manner, aspirants can enjoy the stay at-home facilities and also the benefits of any good coaching institute.
• You’ll find credible online courses these days. They offer: A dedicated mentor (experts from various fields) for each student who:
  • Develops a personalized daily study plan;
  • Resolves doubts;
  • Gives regular tests, feedback, and weekly personal evaluation;
  • Provides Study-videos prepared by experts;
  • Provides Study material; and
  • Offers Flexible class timings.
• You can decide on class timings with your mentor in online courses. On the other hand, offline coaching centres will have fixed class timings. The travel time in commuting to and from the coaching classes wastes time and energy. As an advantage with respect to location, you can take online courses from anywhere.
• Revisiting topics once taught isn’t possible in offline classes. Whereas, you can repeatedly watch the study-videos offered by online courses. This makes it easier to revise.
• Your course mentor in an online course will share regular personalized feedback on your preparation and progress. He/she will help you enhance the required soft skills. But, most of the times, the mentors at offline coaching centres may not be able to spare that kind of time on each student.
• Compare the two coaching models and evaluate your choices prudently. Once decided, start studying diligently.

Let us examine both models

• Portability
  1. This is the lone aspect responsible for the rise of online UPSC apps for candidates' coaching need.
  2. If you use online UPSC apps for coaching, you will acknowledge that the degree of portability makes the choice of taking classes online very popular. Online coaching is the ideal alternative because you may view your classes on any subject at any time from the comfort of your home.
  3. Due to the requirement that you physically be present at the class location, the same facility is not available with offline coaching. Additionally, it takes up additional time because you have to commute to the location where the class is being held.
• Clarification of Doubts
  1. Doubts are certain to surface when learning something new. If the same is not resolved, it will be difficult to comprehend comparable themes in the future.
  2. In an online class, you must message the instructor online, and the instructor must then read the message to comprehend the query. This process is a little time-consuming and tedious.
  3. On the other hand, if you attend offline coaching, you can do the same right away. Along with that, the question is answered more effectively because you may speak with the teacher directly and discuss other subjects or doubts with him later.
  4. Online coaching does not offer this flexibility. Therefore, offline coaching should be your choice if you frequently have doubts.
• Fees
  1. The price of offline coaching is higher than the price of internet tutoring. The costs a coaching centre incurs for offline classes is the cause of the same. You only need a webcam and a whiteboard for online classes.
  2. In contrast, you need a sizable place where you can fit all the pupils at once for offline sessions. The rate charged for such sessions is more than their online counterparts because the cost of hiring such spaces is significant and there are additional maintenance costs that students must pay.
• Realistic Environment while Giving Tests
  1. If you want to do well in the UPSC exam, you must practise giving tests while preparing for them.
  2. Taking part in a test series is a fantastic approach to evaluate your knowledge and preparedness and pinpoint the areas that require further attention.
  3. You can take the online test series if you enrol in online tutoring, which is far more convenient than the offline ones.
  4. On the other hand, if you attempt an offline test, you have real examination-like experience along with strict time restrictions that will make the test more realistic and useful.
• Better Reach
  1. When choosing a coaching centre to prepare for the UPSC exams, location is a crucial consideration.
  2. Selecting a coaching facility close to your home will allow you to avoid wasting time on commuting.
  3. With online coaching, you may take classes from anywhere in the world without having to worry about travel time. The only prerequisites for taking an online course these days are a reliable internet connection and a gadget that works with your favourite apps.
  4. Online coaching is a viable option if you live somewhere far from the coaching centres.

It is critical to first recognise where you are now and how much improvement is required. Knowing your study goals can help you choose between self-study and enrolling in a coaching programme.

Consider different options before selecting a coaching institute. Your future can be made or broken by a coaching institute. A bad one will torture you in your mind. A good one, on the other hand, will help in your preparation.

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