Delineating Between Asynchronous and Synchronous Content (Navigate 1.1.1)

Teachers today, whether they teach in a traditional brick and mortar school, teach online, or teach a hybrid of the two, need to understand the differences between asynchronous and synchronous methods of delivery.  In many ways, teachers naturally employ these different methods as they differentiate instruction in the classroom, but there are may tools available to teachers and students that could aid in instructing students in a modern, technological age.

Asynchronous (not synchronized) learning occurs when students complete assignments at different times with a set deadline.  When teachers utilize tools such as email, online discussion boards, or class websites and blogs, teachers are delivering information in an asynchronous way.  This mode of delivery can be very effective because students can consume information or media and complete tasks at their own, individual paces.  For practical purposes, asynchronous delivery can be useful in situations where a student might be sick, or if a student takes longer to read a passage than the rest of the class.  Asynchronous delivery is what virtual teachers have traditionally employed, and while it remains both practical and functional, it is not the sole way to conduct learning in a virtual classroom.

Synchronous (synchronized) learning occurs when students work on assignments at the same time.  Tools that teachers can use for this method of learning include Skype/Google hangouts, instant messaging or chats, and documents via Google Drive in which multiple writers can work remotely on a document, editing that document simultaneously.  Synchronous learning lends itself to more collaboration and teamwork than does asynchronous learning.

The most effective virtual (and traditional brick and mortar) classrooms will utilize both asynchronous and synchronous tools to provide the student with a learning experience that is personalized, supplies faster feedback, and empowers students to learn and achieve in the 21st century.  In this type of classroom, the role of the teacher may shift from simply grading papesr and providing feedback to analyzing data and trends to target the specific needs of students.  When executed effectively, the classroom that uses both asynchronous and synchronous methods of learning will improve student learning and achievement.

What methods do you find particularly useful for asynchronous and synchronous learning in the classroom?