If we’ve learned anything in the last 2 years, it is that the experience of learning is ever-evolving and growing; when you’re learning a language in person or online it’s possible to learn both with an instructor one-on-one or in a group setting. Learning can happen in a variety of settings. These two settings come with pros and cons, and both are effective. It ultimately matters most how you learn best.
If you are on the fence about picking how to learn a new language and unsure what works best for you, read below, where we go over some of the benefits of learning one-on-one and collaborative learning.
When learning something new one-on-one with an instructor or mentor, the learning experience is far more tailored to the student, meaning they learn at their pace in their style of learning without having to compete for the attention of other students or conform to how the majority of the students learn. In a study where medical students worked one-on-one with their mentors, the mentees found that the process allowed them to focus on their personal goals and ultimately served as an individualized support program.
Learning a language one-on-one allows the student and teacher to focus more of their attention on what the student struggles with most and highlights their strengths. When learning one-on-one, it’s all about you and making sure you’re getting what you and you alone want out of the course you are taking. There are no distractions, and because the instructor is hyper-focused on you, they push you to excel in a way that isn’t possible in a group setting.
Learning anything can be a challenge. Many people are more than capable of learning many things independently or with the help of an instructor with guided learning. However, for many, it is easier to learn a language if they are in a group setting. Collaborative learning allows for interaction with classmates and facilitates practice and the use of the language.
When you learn with a group it forces you to hold yourself and the group, as a whole, accountable. In addition, students thrive with the support and motivation of one another, creating an energy in the class that motivates everyone to continue to make their best effort. In some ways, collaborative learning makes students feel responsible for helping their classmates thrive, and therefore they push each other to learn and study.
Ultimately, learning a new language isn’t easy. If you have the option to pick between one-on-one instruction and group learning, consider how you best absorb and process information. Think about what helps you thrive most and how you feel best supported. It is the best way to choose where and how to learn a new language.
Your end goal has to be about what’s best for you and how you will achieve success. Both learning one-on-one and in a group setting are great choices, and you can’t go wrong, but if you know one works better for you, that’s likely the path that will bring you the most success.
