Debating the right time to use asynchronous and synchronous learning?
As more and more learning environments have moved online during the pandemic, there has been a lot of discussion around the topic of online teaching and the different forms of e-learning.
E-learning is a type of virtual learning environment that is facilitated with elements of electronic tools, resources and various digital media, such as computers, phones and an array of devices.
What has come to light in this swift transition to digital learning environments, across all industries, is the multifaceted nature of e-learning. E-learning can be presented in the form of asynchronous, synchronous or hybrid learning. Selecting the right approach when considering digital learning development can make all the difference in making sure that your course is designed to properly engage your audience and effectively meet their learning needs.
Now, what do these terms actually mean? And how do they differ? Why are they so important for us to learn? Well, these are just some of the questions that we will be uncovering throughout this article. Together, we will explore the benefits for each learning approach and gain a solid understanding of the circumstances where each model might be favored over the other.
Asynchronous vs Synchronous Learning
Let’s begin by defining both terms. This will help us to better consider their key benefits and limitations.
Synchronous learning within an online learning environment includes a ‘live’ component or activity that happens in real time, such as a video conference session or live discussion. These activities take place in a digital space that enables all learners to participate and interact with each other within the course simultaneously.
Benefits: Synchronous learning is beneficial to use for an online learning environment that aims to humanize the learning experience. This approach allows for an increased opportunity for social interactions and collaboration, provides a sense of classroom community and belonging for learners, and helps to build a teacher’s presence within the course. This e-learning model is favorable for learners who can benefit from asking questions and for teachers to provide instant feedback, which helps to facilitate live engagement that can alleviate any knowledge gaps. As well, it can help prevent miscommunication that may lead to misunderstanding and instead benefit the overall learner success.
Limitations: Some challenges faced when designing for this environment include technological dependency on electronic equipment and a stable internet connection, bringing forth an accessibility and equality issue. The requirement to be available and prepared at specific times and in specific places. Additionally, synchronous learning has the potential for creating barriers for learners with disabilities.
To learn about Pure & Applied’s synchronous learning projects and interactive online experiences, read more about our online and blended teaching festival and our human-centred approach to all our digital learning content creation.
Asynchronous learning within an online learning environment includes activities that are autonomous and self-paced, which learners can complete in their own time over a set duration. As well, learners can engage with and process the material in any way that best suits their learning preferences or needs. Some examples include forum discussion posts, assigned readings, or pre-recorded videos.
Benefits: Asynchronous learning is ideal for learners that prefer flexibility, as it allows the experience to be individualized to each student. Students are able to take the suitable amount of time they need to engage with the material, digest the content and revisit the material at any time for further clarification.
Limitations: Unfortunately, not all learners can easily stay motivated or learn when they do not remain stimulated through live engagement and interaction with others. Digital environments, if not well supported, can also cause feelings of disconnect or isolation.
Can’t choose between both Models? Consider a Blended Approach
If you are building an e-learning course and you’re not sure which approach to use, ask yourself who your learners are and examine the nature of your material. How would your learners learn best? And in what environment would the material best be understood in? If the answer is both synchronously and asynchronously, consider a blend.
A hybrid learning approach is an online learning environment that contains blended components of both synchronous and asynchronous learning models, tailoring the learning experience and activities to include a mix of both approaches that will best meet the learners needs.
To learn more about synchronous and asynchronous benefits and limitations, find out more from Concordia’s Centre for Teaching and Learning.
Implications on course design and development
A better understanding of the benefits and limitations of both elearning models can now help to shed some light on the importance of learner engagement. When designing and developing a course for a target audience, it’s important to know what their learning needs are and the best way to present the material you are working with. Elements from both synchronous and asynchronous learning can be used in different ways to help guide you in this process.
Some organizations will use one type of e-learning or both, but it is vital to know which will benefit the learner the most before designing a course to provide the most authentic and effective learning experience. With that, keep in mind the key importance of being intentional when choosing your model and ensuring you are confident that you can deliver it effectively.
If you would like our guidance in developing these learning strategies or to adapt your traditional workshops or courses to an online learning environment, we would be happy to help. Select a time to chat with us here.
