Is Synchronous Learning for You?
Online learning is becoming more and more common as the preferred learning environment. Online learning is generally divided into synchronous and asynchronous learning. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Which method is best? It depends on the student.
Synchronous learning is similar online as it is in a traditional classroom. Both allow face to face interaction in a classroom style environment. Participants all learn at one time. Participants can be geographically distant from the instructor if they have access to a smart phone, laptop or computer. All participants, teachers and learners, contribute, interact and communicate to the discussion at the same time. "Class" is scheduled at a specific time. All participants are expected to be available at that time.
Advantages of synchronous learning:
*Avoid feelings of isolation
*Immediate feedback
*Quality student-teacher interaction
*Increased student engagement
*Face to face instruction
*Increased Collaboration in real time
*Direct teaching/incorporate classroom techniques
*Motivation
*Information adapted for spatial (visual), linguistic (verbal) and kinesthetic (physical) learners
Disadvantages of synchronous learning:
*Non-flexible time allotment
*Probelms with technology
*Lack of listening skills
*Overwhelmed with technology
Tools/technology that can be used for synchronous learning include but are not limited to:
*Videoconferencing
*Webcasts
*Interactive Learning Models
*Telephone Conferences
*Virtual Worlds
*Online Chat Rooms
*Instant Messaging
*Whiteboards
Here is a short, comical video about synchronous learning:
Google Hangouts is a specific tool that instructors can use to develop and implement a synchronous environment. Google Hangouts is affordable and user-friendly. Google Hangouts allows:
1. Integration of live classroom discussions
2. Collaboration of up to 10 people in a video chat
3. Accessed from various mobile devices
4. Online study groups
5. Send photos and messages
6. Learning interventions
7. Virtual presentations by experts (save travel expenses for expert)
8. One on one learner support
9. Option of using phone
10. Record presentations
Other specific tools:
Tips for Online Presenter
*be prepared
*maximum 6-8 minutes of talking at a time
*intersperse with questions, polls, activities, other speakers
*decide how you will handle direct messages during presentation
References
Higley, M. (October, 2013). Benefits of synchronous and asynchronous e-learning. Retrieved from http://elearningindustry.com/benefits-of-synchronous-and-asynchronous-e-learning.
Pappas, C. (August, 2014). 6 tips to use Google Hangouts for synchronous learning. Retrieved from http://elearningindustry.com/6-tips-use-google-hangouts-for-synchronous-learning
The benefits of synchronous learning. Retrieved from http://elearning-reviews.traineasy.com/2014/09/22/the-benefits-of-synchronous-learning/.
*maximum 6-8 minutes of talking at a time
*intersperse with questions, polls, activities, other speakers
*decide how you will handle direct messages during presentation
References
Higley, M. (October, 2013). Benefits of synchronous and asynchronous e-learning. Retrieved from http://elearningindustry.com/benefits-of-synchronous-and-asynchronous-e-learning.
Pappas, C. (August, 2014). 6 tips to use Google Hangouts for synchronous learning. Retrieved from http://elearningindustry.com/6-tips-use-google-hangouts-for-synchronous-learning
The benefits of synchronous learning. Retrieved from http://elearning-reviews.traineasy.com/2014/09/22/the-benefits-of-synchronous-learning/.
