Selecting an English language course can involve many factors, and for prospective students this decision is not always straightforward.
Location, duration, course content and academic or professional focus are often the main areas given attention during the decision-making process. Students may also take into account cultural opportunities, accommodation arrangements and the broader experience of studying in another country. However, one element that is less frequently considered is class size, despite the influence it can have on the overall learning experience.
Class size plays an important role in shaping the nature of language study. Many students follow the familiar route of joining a group course, often because this mirrors their previous educational experiences or because group learning is generally associated with social interaction and shared progress. Group courses can provide a dynamic classroom atmosphere with a variety of viewpoints and learning styles represented. They offer opportunities for peer learning, collaboration, and exposure to English spoken by fellow learners with different backgrounds and accents.
At the same time, group learning brings considerations that students may wish to reflect on during their course selection. In a larger class, it can be more challenging for individual learning objectives to be fully integrated into the lesson plan. Teachers must address the needs of a diverse classroom, which may result in lessons that focus on general skills rather than the specific requirements of each student. As a result, a student may occasionally revisit topics already mastered or spend time on areas that are not directly aligned with personal goals, whether academic, professional or communicative.
One-to-one tuition offers an alternative learning environment that differs from the group model. With individual lessons, the teaching is centred on one student alone, allowing for a more personalised approach. The pace of study, the choice of learning materials and the balance between skills such as speaking, listening, reading and writing can be adapted to match the student’s preferences, learning style and aims. This format enables a greater degree of flexibility, as lessons can respond immediately to changes in the student’s goals or areas of interest.
In addition, one-to-one tuition allows for more focused feedback and increased speaking time. Students are able to ask questions at any moment, explore subjects of personal relevance, and receive clarification without the need to share time with others. This can create space for detailed work on individual skills, whether that involves pronunciation, exam preparation, academic language, or professional communication. Some students find that the individual support offered through one-to-one tuition assists them in building confidence in specific areas of English.
Both group and one-to-one formats offer valuable opportunities for language development, and each may be suited to different students depending on their aims, personality, learning preferences and timescale for study. Some students benefit from the social engagement and shared experience of a group, whereas others may appreciate the tailored structure and individual focus of one-to-one lessons. Reflecting on class size alongside other practical and academic considerations may assist students in choosing the form of tuition that best supports
their objectives.