Online School Learning Styles
Learning style plays a huge role in how well an online school works for your child, yet it's often overlooked when comparing options. Some schools use live, teacher-led lessons that follow a traditional classroom approach, while others rely on self-paced study or modern methods like flipped learning, where students review content independently and use lesson time for discussion and support. Each style has its strengths, and the right fit depends on how your child learns best, how much structure they need, and how involved you want to be as a parent. In this section, we compare online schools based on their learning styles, so you can find an approach that keeps your child engaged and progressing.
Learning Approaches
Online schools typically use one of these three learning approaches: live learning, self-study, or flipped learning. But what do these learning approaches mean?
Live learning: Students are taught through live classroom learning online, usually in small groups of between 5 and 30, depending on the school.
Self-study: Students learn through fully on-demand materials and courses, making this approach more independent and self-paced. Self-study schools also usually have the option to add additional tutor support for extra guidance.
Flipped learning: Students study with on-demand activities first, and then cover said topics in live classroom learning for further discussion. Flipped learning combines both live and on-demand study.
Live Learning Schools
Self-Study Learning Schools
Flipped Learning Schools
What to consider when choosing a learning style?
When comparing different learning approaches, it is important to consider what style would best meet your child's learning needs and your family's schedule. Live lesson learning is the most similar to traditional schooling options, with scheduled weekly classes and guided teacher-led support. Self-study learning is more independent, focus-based, with minimal support, but usually at a more affordable cost. Additionally, tutor support can normally be added for further guidance. Finally, flipped learning brings both learning styles together, combining live learning with independent study.
Live learning and flipped learning styles require less parental involvement, whereas self-study may require more parental guidance, which is another factor to consider.