Bridge Courses vs. Self-Study: Which Approach Yields Better Results
A bridge course is a high school-preparation course with an academic curriculum that is offered to SEE students as a means of preparing for the intellectual challenges of high school.
The choice between bridge courses or self-study depends on your learning needs, goals, and preferences. Bridge courses are structured programs designed to help students fill knowledge gaps with a well-organized curriculum, expert guidance, and access to resources. They provide accountability through regular assessments and are particularly beneficial for students who prefer a clear learning path or need hands-on experience in subjects like coding or lab-based sciences. Also, peer interaction within these classes enhances the capacity for mutual learning and sharing of knowledge; thus, this class setting would suit those who perform better in a group or need extra help with the material.
The advantage of self-study, on the other hand, is flexibility and affordability: it means that one can learn at one's own pace via books, online material, or videos. It suits especially the independent and disciplined learner who, for specific needs, structures the learning journey. In general, this is effective for familiar or theoretical subjects where the grounding is available, as it encourages autonomy and critical thinking. However, self-study can be challenging for subjects that require detailed explanations or practical applications, since it lacks the structure and immediate feedback provided by bridge courses.
Ultimately, bridge courses are best for students seeking instruction and accountability, and self-study serves those students preferring flexibility and independence. Many students get the best outcome using a blended approach: studying the basics using a bridge course, and then additional depth using self-study. Your decision should be guided by the complexity of your subject, learning style, time available to you, and your budget.
