Learning English can be a daunting, time-consuming, and challenging task. There are many things that can affect your learning process: methodologies, class duration, kinds of classes (online or in-person), and whether the class is in groups or individually. Therefore, it is relevant to first do some research before committing to an English course.
Now, learning English in groups or individually both have their advantages and disadvantages. And you will have to choose which one suits you best.
Learning English in Groups
If you’re more interested in having conversations with different people, sharing different ideas, and listening to different accents, then classes in groups are for you. This one is pretty common in traditional courses, as well as in language exchange programs and conversation classes.
Learning English in groups means studying with other people who share the same interests or objectives in learning the language. This can be done through formal courses, online platforms, language exchange programs, or social clubs.
More motivation
Learning in groups can help learners stay motivated and encouraged by seeing the progress and achievements of others. It can also provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie, as learners can share their challenges and successes, give and receive feedback, and help each other overcome difficulties.
But it can also make learners feel frustrated or stressed when they compare themselves to other classmates who speak better or make fewer mistakes. Also, there may be some more competitive learners that can also make you feel a bit stressed, especially if you’re not the competitive type.
Interaction and communication.
Learning in groups can offer more opportunities to practice speaking and listening skills, as learners can engage in conversations, discussions, debates, or presentations with their peers or teachers. This can help learners improve their fluency, accuracy, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, as well as develop their confidence and competence in using the language in different situations.
There’s a negative aspect here, though. If you are not very social or have some difficulties dealing with social situations, group classes can be intimidating because most speaking activities will be in pairs or groups, and it is expected that you talk to people you don’t know.
Learning English individually
Similar to learning in groups, there are many advantages and disadvantages to learning individually, and it’s up to you to choose which one fits you better.
Pace and level
Learning in groups can be challenging if the pace or level of the instruction does not match one’s needs or abilities. Some learners may feel bored or frustrated if the material is too easy or too difficult for them, or if they have to wait for others to catch up or move on.
If that’s the way you feel, then learning individually is the best option for you. You can go at your own pace, ask as many questions as possible, and clear all your doubts.
More attention
Similar to the previous point, learning individually will grant you all the attention from your teacher. Without other learners, you are free to ask as many questions as possible, to clear doubts, and to make the class about your needs.
Flexibility and convenience
Learning English individually means studying by oneself without the presence or assistance of other people. This can be done through self-study materials, online resources, apps, books, podcasts, videos, etc. Also, you get to choose if the classes are in person or online.
In addition, you could arrange with your teacher the time for the classes, reschedule sessions, and overall, you will have more control.
Finally, as stated previously, there are different aspects to take into account when learning, both positive and negative, so compare both and even try them, and then decide what is the best one for you. Remember that not everybody learns in the same way.