Professors at Sinclair College say the debate between online and in-person classes isn’t as simple as choosing one over the other. Instead, many say both formats offer distinct advantages depending on the subject, teaching style and student needs.
Kelly Joslin
Kelly Joslin, an art professor, said she values both formats equally and has seen little difference in student success between the two.
“There really wasn’t as much distinction between the two in terms of student success as people often wanted to suggest,” Joslin said, referencing research from her doctoral dissertation.
She added that online courses can sometimes allow for stronger one-on-one interaction through feedback and communication.
“With proper interaction…you could get to know [students] very well—sometimes better than you do in a lecture hall,” she said.
Nadine Cichy
Communication professor Nadine Cichy shared a similar view but emphasized that engagement tends to be stronger in face-to-face settings.
“My face-to-face classes are much more engaged… they’re more likely to reach out and stay engaged for the entire semester,” Cichy said.
While she noted that online courses can still be effective, she said they often require more effort from both students and instructors to build those connections. Cichy also pointed out that courses like public speaking are easier to manage in person, where students already have an audience.
Joe Czyupryn
Math professor Joe Czupryn highlighted the importance of in-person interaction, particularly in subjects that require hands-on problem solving.
“You could go an entire semester… and have little to no interaction with some students,” he said, describing one of the biggest challenges of online courses.
He added that students may be less comfortable reaching out for help in an online setting, limiting how much instructors can support them. “With math… it’s a lot easier for students to understand when they are there face to face,” Czupryn said.
He also noted that some students underestimate online classes.
“Some students fall into the trap of thinking online classes will be easier… and then end up struggling,” he said.
Across departments, professors agree that both formats can be effective, but the success depends on student engagement and the effort they put in. Whether online or in person, instructors say the key to learning remains the same: staying involved, communicating and taking advantage of available support.
Jacie Moore, reporter
Check out more from The Clarion:
- 5 upcoming events to celebrate Mother’s Day
- YourVoice: Staff share views on in-person vs. online classes
- Sinclair Student Engagement expanding to Student Life and Career Development
- YourVoice: How Tartans are approaching the 2026 Ohio primary
- ‘A true student advocate’: Marc DeWitt remembered for lasting service
