If you're one of those people who has an alcohol awareness class requirement, sometimes you have to choose between two options: online alcohol awareness class or in person alcohol awareness class.
There are lots of different things to weigh when trying to make this choice. For example, do you want to drive to a class? Which is more affordable? Do you like group class settings? Hopefully this blog post will help you make this decision.
Location and Times
The first thing to consider is class location and times. If you are considering an in-person course, is the location where the class is being held convenient for you? Are the times convenient for you? For example, many in-person classes are held either in the evenings during the week or on the weekend. Check to see if these times work for you. Of course an online class has the convenience of being taken at any time and you can take them from the comfort of your home. So usually an online class is going to be a lot more convenient for most people.
Computer Access
For an online class you're going to need a computer with an internet connection to be able to access the class. If you don't have access to a computer or the internet, then maybe this isn't the option for you. An in-person class doesn't need a computer. You just need to go there.
Cost
In-person classes usually cost between $25 and $40 per session. That means an 8 hour or 8 session class is going to cost you between $200 to over $300. That doesn't include the gas or bus fare you may need to get to the class. An online option is usually much cheaper (for example our 8 hour alcohol awareness class is $149). Sometimes if you are low-income you can ask the person teaching the in-person class for a discount or they may have a low-fee program.
Group Setting
Many people like group settings. They like to be able to interact with other people who have the same problems they do and talk with them about those problems. For these people an in-person class can really be the right choice. But if you are a person who is embarassed easily and don't like being force to talk about your problems, then maybe an online class is a better option. These classes are more suited if you prefer privacy about your class.
Sometimes You Can't Decide
Of course some state courts have requirements which may make the decision for you. For example in Colorado, if you have a DUI they usually don't let you taken an online program unless you get special permission. So it's always good to check with court before you sign up.