Before you decide on the direction of your teaching career and classes, you should compare online and face-to-face teaching. You will make a more informed decision by understanding the differences in responsibilities, technology, impact and teaching technique.

Responsibilities
Online teachers must plan, upload and grade virtual assignments. They must also be willing to email, chat and conference via phone with students who need clarification or extra help. The hours and locations are flexible, as long as the work is done by deadline. Face-to-face teachers must similarly plan, teach and grade lessons in their classrooms. Hours and locations are fixed, but many teachers have holiday breaks, summers off and planning time built into their contract.

Technology
Online teachers must be well-versed in various instructional technologies for the Web, including PowerPoint, discussion forums, blogs and streaming video. Face-to-face teachers can choose to use these tools or to use chalk and a blackboard, or a whiteboard.

Impact
Online teachers help some students who may not otherwise be able to attend school and earn a diploma. Face-to-face teachers have the opportunity to build personal relationships after continuous contact with students.

Principles and Techniques of Teaching
Online teachers must try to accommodate all learning styles in a remote environment. They must also design lessons that work well with technology. Teachers in a classroom can include opportunities for all learning styles, using any method they choose.