🌱 The Importance of Face-to-Face Learning in a GenAI Influenced World
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| Face-to-face learning: the human connection at the heart of education. |
Author: Adisha Kariyawasam BSc , MScIT, PGCE (PCET), BCS
In an age of algorithms, automation and virtual classrooms, it’s easy to overlook the quiet power of being together. Yet face-to-face learning remains one of the most profoundly human experiences we can share – a space where intellect meets intuition and knowledge turns into wisdom.
Beyond information: the energy of presence
When people learn in the same room, something remarkable happens. It’s not just about exchanging information; it’s about sharing energy. The subtle cues – a smile, a nod, a pause of reflection – create a rhythm that’s hard to replicate through a screen.
There’s something that taps into the superhuman consciousness when we learn together – an energy that transcends words, flowing through curiosity, empathy and shared discovery. These are the moments that spark creativity, belonging and authentic growth.
Recent UK research confirms this: students express greater satisfaction and perceive higher learning quality when taught face-to-face compared with fully online delivery (McGill et al., 2023). The social energy of physical presence enhances attentiveness, motivation and a shared sense of purpose.
Learning as connection, not transaction
Digital tools and AI have revolutionised access to education – but true education has never been purely transactional; it is relational. It flourishes in trust, dialogue and mutual respect.
Digital tools and AI have revolutionised access to education – but true education has never been purely transactional; it is relational. It flourishes in trust, dialogue and mutual respect.
At BPP University, these values are embedded in how we teach and lead:
1. Everybody Matters – valuing each individual and recognising every contribution.
2. Trust and Respect – behaving with honesty, accountability and professionalism.
3. Stronger Together – collaborating across teams and disciplines to achieve shared goals.
4. Embrace Change – innovating and adapting confidently in a dynamic world.
5. Student, Learner and Client Centric – listening, empathising and responding to those we serve.
These are not slogans but lived values that shape the classroom experience.
Face-to-face learning embodies these principles in action: it cultivates social presence – the sense of “being with” others – which research consistently links to stronger engagement, confidence and learning outcomes (O’Brien et al., 2023).
Students in UK higher education still overwhelmingly prefer in-person teaching (HEPI, 2021), viewing it as central to genuine human connection and mutual growth.
Technology as an ally, not a substitute
AI can enhance how we learn – offering flexibility, feedback and accessibility – but it cannot replace the spark of human connection. The challenge for educators today is not to choose between human and machine, but to weave them together mindfully.
Technology should serve humanity, not dilute it. The future of education lies in balance – using innovation to amplify, not replace, the power of presence. The UK Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (2023) highlights that while digital learning can widen access, sustained in-person interaction remains vital for deep engagement and equitable participation.
Critical thinking, evaluation and reflective practice
In addition to connection and collaboration, face-to-face environments play a vital role in cultivating critical thinking and evaluative judgement. Facilitated discussions allow learners to question, debate and refine ideas in real time – a process that stimulates analytical depth and intellectual confidence (Trowler, 2023).
Handwritten note-taking, often undervalued in the digital age, remains a powerful cognitive tool, supporting memory retention and conceptual understanding (Mueller and Oppenheimer, 2014). Encouraging students to digitise and share these notes or reflections through discussion forums extends the dialogue beyond the classroom, creating a living record of collective learning.
This integration of analogue reflection and digital sharing bridges the best of both worlds – supporting metacognition while reinforcing the social and collaborative nature of learning (Jisc, 2023).
Where minds meet, transformation begins
Face-to-face learning is not merely about proximity; it’s about presence. It reminds us that education is as much about becoming as it is about knowing – a shared act of discovery that strengthens both mind and heart. Other important considerations follow...
Social–emotional development
Why it matters: Social–emotional learning (SEL) fosters empathy, resilience and collaboration – essential qualities for both personal and professional growth.
Face-to-face advantage: In-person environments enhance emotional attunement through real-time cues, enabling learners to practise empathy and communication.
Evidence: Studies in UK higher education show that social-emotional skill development correlates strongly with classroom presence and belonging (TASO, 2023). Reduced physical interaction during online periods weakened students’ sense of community and wellbeing (Behavioural Insights Team, 2022).
Example: In small seminar settings, eye contact, dialogue and immediacy build trust and encourage risk-taking – the conditions for authentic learning (O’Brien et al., 2023).
Employability skills
Networking and communication: Face-to-face learning provides spontaneous opportunities to connect, network and build professional relationships.
Practical and teamwork skills: In-person collaboration develops real-world competencies – teamwork, adaptability and interpersonal fluency – that employers value highly.
Evidence: Employer and student surveys indicate that graduates from blended or in-person programmes report stronger professional confidence and communication skills than their online-only peers (Jisc, 2023).
Face-to-face experiences also allow learners to engage with mentors, industry guests and live projects – experiences that are central to employability (HEPI, 2021).
Intercultural competence
Global citizenship: Exposure to diverse peers in physical classrooms enhances intercultural sensitivity and global awareness.
Embodied understanding: Real-world dialogue allows cultural nuances – tone, gesture and empathy – to enrich understanding beyond the textual.
Evidence: While virtual international initiatives such as Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) promote global interaction, UK evidence suggests that in-person encounters remain uniquely effective in improving engagement and academic performance (University of Bath, 2023).
Practical design take-aways
1. Protect presence: Reserve face-to-face sessions for activities requiring co-presence – debate, teamwork, presentations, simulations.
2. Blend with intent: Use digital tools for flexibility and self-paced learning; use in-person time for dialogue and application.
3. Engineer social presence: Promote interaction through name-learning, peer mentoring and collaborative artefacts.
4. Map to employability: Embed teamwork, communication and leadership skills within live classroom tasks.
5. Design for intercultural growth: Integrate international perspectives and structured reflection in both physical and digital spaces.
References
Behavioural Insights Team (2022) Digital learning. Available at: https://www.bi.team/articles/digital-learning/ (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
HEPI (2021) The vast majority of students want in-person learning, not more online classes. Available at: https://www.hepi.ac.uk/2021/07/15/the-vast-majority-of-students-want-in-person-learning-not-more-online-classes/ (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
Jisc (2023) Does online learning deter university applicants? Available at: https://www.jisc.ac.uk/blog/does-online-learning-deter-university-applicants/ (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
McGill, L. et al. (2023) ‘Student preferences over module design: in-person lectures versus online lectures’, Discover Education. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44217-024-00270-z (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
Mueller, P.A. and Oppenheimer, D.M. (2014) ‘The pen is mightier than the keyboard: Advantages of longhand over laptop note taking’, Psychological Science, 25(6), pp. 1159–1168.
Murray, K. (2025) ‘The third space professional: cultivating authentic learning experiences for students in higher education’, Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. Available at: https://journal.aldinhe.ac.uk/index.php/jldhe/article/view/1223 (Accessed: 9 November 2025).
O’Brien, A. et al. (2023) ‘Face-to-face vs. blended learning in higher education: a quantitative study’, International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education. Available at: https://research.edgehill.ac.uk/en/publications/face-to-face-vs-blended-learning-in-higher-education-a-quantitati (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (2023) Digital education and learning technologies. Available at: https://post.parliament.uk/research-briefings/post-pn-0639/ (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
Quinlan, K. M., Sellei, G. and Fiorucci, W. (2024) ‘Educationally authentic assessment: reframing authentic assessment in relation to students’ meaningful engagement’, Teaching in Higher Education, 30(3), pp. 717–734. Available at: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/107151/ (Accessed: 9 November 2025).
TASO (2023) Online teaching and learning in the time of COVID-19: rapid evidence review. Available at: https://cdn.taso.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023-03-22_Evidence-review_Online-teaching-and-learning-in-COVID-19_TASO.pdf (Accessed: 8 November 2025).
Times Higher Education and Adobe (2023) Authentic Assessment in Higher Education and the Role of Digital Creative Technologies. Available at: https://www.adobe.com/content/dam/cc/uk/education/higher-education/digital-edge-award-2024/Authentic-Assessment-Higher-Education-Role-Digital-Technologies-2023.pdf (Accessed: 9 November 2025).
Trowler, V. (2023) Student engagement and higher education learning communities: Critical thinking in practice. York: Advance HE.
University of Bath (2023) Study shows university students who attend seminars in person enjoy better exam results. Available at: https://www.bath.ac.uk/announcements/study-shows-university-students-who-attend-seminars-in-person-enjoy-better-exam-results/ (Accessed: 9 November 2025).
University of Edinburgh/Napier-repository (2023) Authentic learning in higher education environments: teacher insight into student experience. Available at: https://napier-repository.worktribe.com/output/3110589/authentic-learning-in-higher-education-environments-teacher-insight-into-student-experience-a-reflection-of-process-and-purpose-stage-1-with-focus-on-edinburgh-case (Accessed: 9 November 2025).
Appendix 1: Glossary of Abbreviations and Key Terms
AI - Artificial Intelligence : The simulation of human intelligence by computer systems that can perform tasks such as reasoning, learning and decision-making. Artificial Intelligence encompasses a range of subfields, including machine learning and Generative AI (GenAI) — systems capable of creating new content such as text, images, code or music based on patterns in existing data.
Inference refers to the process by which AI models apply learned patterns to make predictions or generate outputs from new, unseen data. In higher education, AI and GenAI are increasingly used to support adaptive learning, data analysis and creative exploration, while raising important questions of ethics, originality and academic integrity.
Authentic Assessment : An approach to evaluating learning that focuses on applying knowledge, skills and values to realistic, complex tasks. Authentic assessments mirror professional practice and require students to demonstrate understanding through problem-solving, reflection and performance in real-world or simulated contexts. Contemporary UK research highlights how authentic assessment enhances engagement, employability and digital literacy (Quinlan, Sellei and Fiorucci, 2024; Times Higher Education & Adobe, 2023).
Authentic Learning : A pedagogical approach linking academic concepts to real-world contexts, encouraging learners to apply knowledge through meaningful, practical and collaborative experiences. Authentic learning promotes critical thinking, reflection and problem-solving by connecting theory to professional practice (Murray, 2025; University of Edinburgh/Napier, 2023).
BPP University Values : BPP’s culture is built around five core values that guide behaviour, decision-making and how staff support learners, students and clients:
1. Everybody Matters – We value people over hierarchy and recognise the contribution of every colleague and learner.
2. Trust and Respect – We act with honesty, accountability and professionalism, building relationships based on mutual respect.
3. Stronger Together – We collaborate across teams and disciplines to remove silos and achieve shared goals.
4. Embrace Change – We challenge the norm, innovate and stay agile in a changing educational landscape.
5. Student, Learner and Client Centric – We listen, empathise and respond to the needs of those we serve, aiming to delight and create impact.
Blended Learning : A method combining digital technologies with traditional classroom teaching to create flexible and interactive learning experiences.
COIL - Collaborative Online International Learning : A structured model linking students and educators across borders through online projects that foster intercultural competence.
Digital Learning : Learning supported or delivered through digital technologies such as virtual classrooms, multimedia platforms and AI-enhanced tools.
Employability Skills : Transferable abilities – teamwork, communication, adaptability and problem-solving – that prepare learners for success in professional contexts.
Face-to-Face Learning (F2F) : Education delivered in person, allowing immediate feedback, shared presence and non-verbal interaction.
HEPI - Higher Education Policy Institute (UK) : A think tank analysing UK higher-education policy and student experience.
Hybrid Learning : A delivery model combining synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-paced) participation, integrating online and physical learning spaces.
Jisc - Joint Information Systems Committee : A UK organisation supporting digital transformation and innovation in education and research.
Learning Presence : The degree to which learners project themselves cognitively, socially and emotionally within a learning community.
Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) : An independent UK body providing Parliament with impartial research on science, technology and digital education policy.
PRME - Principles for Responsible Management Education : A UN-supported initiative promoting sustainability and ethical leadership within management and business education.
SEL - Social and Emotional Learning : An educational process that develops self-awareness, empathy and interpersonal skills essential for wellbeing and collaboration.
Social Presence : The ability of learners to project themselves authentically in a learning environment, fostering trust, dialogue and community.
TASO - Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher Education : A UK centre promoting equity and evidence-informed practice in widening participation and student success.
VLE Virtual Learning Environment : A digital platform (e.g. Moodle, Blackboard or Canvas) used to host course materials, support communication and track progress.
Appendix 2: Summary of Key UK Evidence Sources (2021–2025)
Behavioural Insights Team (2022)
An independent UK-based organisation applying behavioural science to improve public policy and services. Their Digital Learning review examined how online delivery affects engagement, motivation, and learner outcomes, highlighting the ongoing importance of human connection in education.
https://www.bi.team/articles/digital-learning/
HEPI – Higher Education Policy Institute (2021)
The UK’s leading higher education think tank, providing data-driven insights on student experience and university policy. A 2021 report revealed that the vast majority of UK students still prefer in-person learning, citing the value of live discussion, social belonging, and community.
Jisc (2023)
A UK non-profit organisation supporting digital transformation across education and research. Their 2023 report Does Online Learning Deter University Applicants? found that students continue to view in-person interaction as central to the university experience and professional development.
https://www.jisc.ac.uk/blog/does-online-learning-deter-university-applicants/
McGill et al. (2023) – Discover Education Study
A UK-based academic study exploring student preferences for in-person versus online lectures. It confirmed that physical presence supports concentration, engagement, and comprehension, particularly in discussion-led disciplines.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44217-024-00270-z
O’Brien et al. (2023) – Edge Hill University Research
This UK quantitative study compared face-to-face and blended learning outcomes across disciplines. Findings emphasised that hybrid approaches can enhance flexibility, but face-to-face engagement remains critical for collaboration, confidence, and deeper learning.
Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (2023)
A research office within the UK Parliament producing impartial briefings on science and education policy. The Digital Education and Learning Technologies report stresses that while technology improves access, meaningful learning still depends on interpersonal interaction and inclusive teaching design.
https://post.parliament.uk/research-briefings/post-pn-0639/
TASO – Transforming Access and Student Outcomes (2023)
A UK centre for evidence-based practice in higher education, focused on widening participation and equity. Its rapid review of Online Teaching and Learning During COVID-19 found that while online tools offer flexibility, they cannot fully replace the sense of belonging and social support cultivated in classrooms.
University of Bath (2023)
Study shows university students who attend seminars in person enjoy better exam results
A University of Bath research announcement highlighting empirical evidence that students who physically attend seminars and workshops perform significantly better in examinations than those relying solely on recorded or remote participation. The study reinforces the cognitive and motivational advantages of in-person learning — notably higher engagement, sustained attention and improved recall — underscoring the role of presence, discussion and feedback in academic success.
https://www.bath.ac.uk/announcements/study-shows-university-students-who-attend-seminars-in-person-enjoy-better-exam-results/ (Accessed: 9 November 2025)
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