It changes based on the user.

Someone get's hives around dogs. Perhaps the online version is better.

Depends on the need.

I want to learn about all dogs. Online would offer more. I want to learn more about this one dog perhaps locally observing is better.

Depends on the technology at the time.

Online might offer the same experiences locally in the future. VR might give you the chance to meet that dog and interact virtually.

The difference between a simulacrum of a dog and a dog is important only in the context of what you trying to get out of a relationship with a dog. Similarly the difference between a virtual and real teacher. Since I am trying to get different things out of each the analogy is useless. That is what I was trying to communicate.