Synchronous Versus Asynchronous Learning

The adult learning environment is booming with choices today!  Synchronous vs. asynchronous learning is of great debate, as each offers unique teaching strategies, benefits, and options.

Asynchronous Learning

Asynchronous learning refers to the online student experience that is not restricted to specific attendance or participation times. Learners who choose and then thrive in an asynchronous environment do so because his or her schedules do not permit them to be obligated to logging into a classroom at a specific time, whether time constraints are due to business and professional limitations, or just busy home, family and lifestyles. Teachers who choose to facilitate asynchronous classes often do so for the same reasons. An asynchronous environment provides an unparalleled freedom for the adult online student as well as the facilitator. 

Facilitation strategies can vary greatly in an asynchronous environment. Communication strategies become more pertinent than ever in an environment that does not allow for a face to face connection.   Discussion questions are often fundamental to the asynchronous learning experience; participation in which generally constitutes the virtual equivalent of raising one's hand in a traditional classroom. 

Synchronous Learning

A synchronous learning environment is known as a traditional learning environment. Learners engaging in such an environment have an obligation to be in the same place at the same time. The advantages of a synchronous learning environment includes real-time interaction between instructor and learners. In a synchronous environment, learners receive immediate feedback, and collaboration and social interaction among learners in promoted. The biggest disadvantage of a synchronous learning environment is the time constraints. A synchronous learning environment could conflict with a learner’s busy schedule.  Other drawbacks of a synchronous learning environment include limited accessibility and distractions. Learners must choose to meet at the same location, convene online on the same website, or communicate on the same telephone line to make a synchronous learning environment successful.

The facilitation strategy requires the instructor to be hands-on and direct involvement with the learners. Instructors can provide immediate feedback. This enhances learning as the student knows whether he or she is meeting the course objective and goals. The facilitator helps build a learner’s confidence in achieving his or her learning goals. Special characteristics of a synchronous facilitator includes managing classroom discussions, building relationships amongst peers, and motivating the learners.

Facilitators of a synchronous learning environment can control a classroom and have presentations skills. The instructor should have different strategies and tools to keep the learners engaged.  The learners must have discipline to adhere to a specific schedule. Through class collaboration and interaction, students actively participate. A synchronous learning environment helps encourage students to collobarate and builds social interaction amongst learners.