Why In-Person Learning Matters More Than Ever

In Blast Off, students imagine their own journey to the moon by creating a mission patch and space-themed art.

When schools closed during the pandemic, students, families, and educators did their best to keep learning going online. However, as research continues to show, nothing replaces the impact of being in the classroom together.

The Cost of Learning Loss

National studies estimate that students lost the equivalent of three to six months of instruction during COVID-19, with math and reading taking the biggest hit. Many students—especially those from underserved communities—are still catching up. Recovery is happening, but unevenly, and experts warn it could take years without strong, in-person support (CNN, 2023, McKinsey, 2023).

Why Being There Makes a Difference

In-person learning isn’t just about academic content. It’s about:

🌟 Connection – Students learn best when they feel seen, supported, and part of a community.

🌟 Engagement – Hands-on projects, group work, and real-time feedback can’t be fully replicated online.

🌟 Equity – For many students, school provides access to meals, mental health support, and enrichment opportunities they can’t get elsewhere (Psychology Today, 2021).

🌟 Results – Studies show that students who returned to classrooms gained ground faster in math and reading compared to peers who remained remote. One North Carolina study even described in-person instruction as an “equalizer” for struggling readers (NC State University, 2022).

More Than Test Scores

School is where children build friendships, practice problem-solving, and discover who they are. In-person learning creates space for collaboration, creativity, and the kind of joyful moments that spark lifelong curiosity. Research consistently shows that the quality of classroom relationships and active participation have long-term benefits for academic success and social-emotional development.

Moving Forward Together

As schools continue to focus on recovery, one thing is clear: in-person instruction is essential to closing gaps and helping students thrive. When students are present—physically and emotionally—learning is deeper, stronger, and lasting.

At AllSet, we believe every student deserves that opportunity. That’s why we partner with schools to design programs that bring learning to life—hands-on, standards-aligned, and filled with the connections that make education meaningful.

Sources & Further Reading

• CNN – Study: Kids lost about a third of a school year in learning during pandemic

• McKinsey – COVID-19 learning delay and recovery: Where do US states stand?

• Psychology Today – The Benefits of In-Person School vs. Remote Learning

• NC State University – In-Person Learning Helped Narrow Reading Gaps During Pandemic