As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine the industry, its impact on education is undeniable. The integration of AI-driven learning platforms, adaptive assessments and virtual classrooms have changed the way students acquire knowledge. But, are learners really embracing this shift?
Vdocipher’s 2024 Online & Offline Education Survey provides a comprehensive analysis of how students view different learning patterns in the pandemic world. The study, which collected answers from 2,954 participants worldwide, sheds light on key trends, preferences, and challenges in online and offline education, while also exploring the role of AI in shaping the future of learning.
The education sector has experienced an earthquake shift over the past few years. The prosperity in online education caused by the pandemic has led to the increase in video-based learning, AI-driven tutoring and digital classrooms. However, as restrictions eased and institutions reopened, we observed a significant shift towards offline learning.
The main findings from our 2024 survey suggest:
●58.4% of learners now prefer mixed education, compared with 46.3% in 2022.
●Only 26.4% of people believe that online education is better than offline education, which marks a significant decline in the 47.8% drop in 2022.
●72.4% now prefer live classes, which indicates the need for real-time interaction.
●66.1% consider offline education as more expensive, thus enhancing the affordability of digital learning solutions.
These insights suggest that while technology revolutionizes education, traditional classroom participation remains irreplaceable for many learners.
Our analysis shows that video content distribution in education is leading the way, accounting for 25%, followed by 18% of technology, media and entertainment. This trend emphasizes the importance customers attach to their educational and technical content.
In the academic content category, competitive examination preparation dominated 40%, highlighting the large demand for preparation materials. Programming and data science courses account for 20%, reflecting a strong interest in technical skills.
In addition, skills-based (non-programming) and higher education accounted for 10%, respectively, indicating a balance of participation with vocational training and advanced research. K-12 education also includes 10%, emphasizing the importance of basic learning. Language learning and continuing education account for 5% of each person, demonstrating valuable areas of personal and professional development.
The 2024 survey asked participants whether they felt they benefited more from online education. result:
●38.3% believe they benefit more from online learning, down from 55.2% in 2022.
●61.7% view offline education as their preferred model, citing better engagement and focus.
The decline in perceived benefits of online learning suggests that while digital education remains valuable,
The survey also examines changing content preferences among learners:
●The preference for long videos has increased: In 2022, only 16.4% of people like long format videos, while in 2024, 54.2% now prefer them.
● Participation in online group research has dropped from 55.2% in 2022 to 29.5% in 2024, indicating a shift towards face-to-face collaboration.
●The demand for social media-based learning is rising, and YouTube and telegraph groups play a crucial role in education.
These insights highlight the evolving needs of learners, while online education is flexible, and participation remains a crucial challenge.
Despite returning to offline learning, AI-driven tools continue to shape modern education. The findings of the survey are consistent with the global EDTECH trend, which is expected to drive $30 billion in market growth by 2032 (global market insights).
The main AI-driven development of education include:
- Personalized learning path: An AI-driven platform analyzes student performance and adjusts content accordingly. Edtech giants like Khan Academy’s AI mentors and Google’s AI-based educational tools enhance self-progressive learning, making online education more effective.
- AI-generated video content: 72.4% of respondents like live classes, and AI-powered virtual classrooms are attracting attention. Tools such as Synthesia and Deepbrain AI enable educators to create automated, interactive video presentations to mimic in-person participation.
- Blended Learning Model: AI bridges the gap between online learning and offline learning through hybrid education models. Platforms such as Coursera and Udemy integrate adaptive quizzes, AI feedback and immersive AR/VR experiences to replicate classroom engagement.
- AI in Assessment and Strategies: Automatic grading and AI-driven Proctoring tools such as Proctorio and Examsoft are revolutionizing online assessments, reducing bias and ensuring academic integrity.
These advances show that while offline learning restores appeal, AI-driven education continues to redefine accessibility, affordability, and personalization in learning.
Given the findings of the survey, a hybrid educational model that combines AI-driven digital learning with traditional classroom experiences seems to be the best way forward.
Recent research supports this trend:
●A McKinsey survey across 17 countries found that students prefer mixed models for peer interaction while relying on online platforms for self-progress learning.
●The 2024 study by the University of Delhi shows that although 53.5% of students prefer offline learning to participate, 46.5% of students prefer online learning to be flexible.
The 2024 Online and Offline Education Survey highlights new preferences for offline learning, but highlights the key role of AI-driven video technology in the future of education.
While traditional classrooms remain the gold standard for participation, secure video platforms enable educators to expand high-quality content while protecting intellectual property, making the future of education a dynamic convergence of security, accessibility and AI-driven innovation.
Organizations, educators and EDTECH companies must focus on balancing AI-driven content with human interaction through secure video solutions and ensuring content protection in an environment of increasingly digital learning.
The report can be accessed here.
This article is written by CEO and co-founder Siddhant Jain (vdocipher.com & zenstream.live).