We decided to compare the pros and cons of group and individual lessons. We did not emphasize them separately, because our students are different: what is a plus for one is a minus for another. Here is what we got.
Teacher's attention
- Group activity. The teacher's attention is distributed around the class. This is sufficient for mastering the material, but if you need maximum attention of the teacher to the student, it will not be possible in a group class.
- Individualized instruction. All the teacher's attention is focused on the child. While some children are comfortable with this, others feel uncomfortable.
Material assimilation
- In a group. The teacher explains the material in a way that is understandable to all students. The teacher stops at some points, explains them in detail, answers questions.
- Individualized. The teacher sees all gaps in the child's knowledge and promptly fills them.
Speech development
- Group activity. All children speak in different ways. In such classes, the teacher has more situations where he/she can say new words. For example, the teacher answers one child's questions and the others learn new words.
- Individual session. If a child is shy to speak, it will be easier for him/her to express himself/herself alone with the teacher.
Class schedule
- In a group. Everyone's schedule is the same and it's impossible to adjust to everyone.
- Individualized. Can be tailored to your child's sporting or creative activities.
Individual approach
- Group activity. The child adapts to the group in pace, topics, and so on.
- Individualized instruction. You can ask any questions, study the program at your own pace.
It turns out that there are no objective pros and cons of the two forms of teaching a child, but only subjective ones. Some children learn the language better when they hear their peers speak, while others need an individualized lesson plan. Therefore, choose between individual and group lessons based on your goals.
