What is Asynchronous Learning?
Asynchronous learning happens on your schedule. While your course of
study, instructor, or program will provide materials for reading,
lectures for viewing, assignments for completing, and exams for
evaluation, you can access and satisfy these requirements on your own
schedule, so long as you meet the expected deadlines. Common
methods of asynchronous online learning include self-guided lesson
modules, pre-recorded video content, virtual libraries, lecture notes,
and online discussion boards or social media platforms.
What are the advantages of asynchronous learning?
Flexibility
If you have a demanding schedule or keep weird hours, you’re probably
an asynchronous learner. In these programs, materials are freely
available — usually within a set period, like a week or two — so you can
access them when it best suits your scheudle, even if it's in the middle
of the night. Materials can include text-based lecture notes; self-
guided, interactive learning modules; or pre-recorded lectures and
podcasts. You can complete a module on the train ride to work; listen
to a lecture on headphones while your baby naps; or work the
graveyard shift, sleep until noon, and take a pop quiz over brunch.
Asynchronous learning gives you the materials so that you can complete
them at your convenience.
Pacing
One of the most empowering features of asynchronous learning is that
you set the pace (usually within set deadlines). You can read and
review materials as much as you need to, completing them based on
your understanding rather than on when class time ends. If you’re a
quick learner, you can power through materials and units that come
easily to you. If it takes you longer to absorb new knowledge, you can
review information, take notes, and practice retention without
worrying about falling behind your classmates or missing key points in a
lecture.
Affordability
If a major motivating factor for you in choosing online education is
affordability, fully asynchronous programs are among your best options.
Online learning options like massive online open courses (MOOCs) often
carry a lower price tag because they don't require daily attention from
instructors or administrators. Instead, students work through the
content themselves, with only occasional interaction with instructors
through email or social media. Self-guided modules, video tutorials, and
virtual libraries all offer you the chance to pursue your education with
minimal oversight and expense. While most of these programs don't
lead to degrees, there are some that do, and they can also include
certification opportunities.
What are the disadvantages of asynchronous learning?
Isolation
If you like the personal touch and do your best when you feel like
people are actually listening, asynchronous learning can be a lonely
experience. Social media and email simply aren’t a substitute for real-
time interaction. Asynchronous learning is also far less collaborative
that its counterparts: Opportunities to discuss, debate, and network
with classmates and professors are scarce. Asynchronous learning is
great when you want to pick up skills quickly, but if you’re looking for
enrichment of discussion, feedback, and social interaction,
asynchronous learning likely isn't for you.
Risk of Apathy
While working in a self-guided environment can be empowering, it’s
important to be honest with yourself. Do you have the drive to not only
keep yourself on track and committed to your goals, but also to remain
enthusiastic about the subject matter without the constant support and
evaluation of an instructor? The reality is that some learners do best
with clearly stated expectations, immediate feedback, and a watchful
eye. If you’re in the latter category, the free-form nature of
asynchronous learning could be demotivating.
What Is Synchronous Learning?
Synchronous learning happens in real time. This means that you, your
classmates, and your instructor interact in a specific virtual place at a
set time. In these courses, instructors commonly take attendance, same
as they would in a lecture hall. Common methods of synchronous online
learning include video conferencing, teleconferencing, live chatting,
and live-streamed lectures that must be viewed in real time.
What are the advantages of synchronous learning?
Classroom Engagement
If you like active discussion, immediate feedback, and personal
interactions with peers and instructors, you’ll probably prefer a
synchronous learning experience. This format can be especially helpful
if you’re just beginning the transition from a traditional classroom to an
online setting. Live videoconferencing, lecture broadcasts, and chatting
in real time in a messaging client can offer much of the personal
engagement available in a classroom, while also allowing you the
comforts of home and no commute time. Plus, you won't ever have to
worry about germs during cold and flu season.
Dynamic Learning
For some learning styles, a synchronous online format is actually an
improvement over classroom learning because it allows for a more
dynamic exploration of topics, ideas, and concepts. There is a speed
and immediacy to synchronous online learning; videoconferencing
makes it possible to ask peers and TAs questions and receive answers
mid-lesson, and not being in a lecture hall means you can do your own
research on the side without disrupting class. If you thrive at a swift
pace, surrounded by competing and complementary ideas, a
synchronous format might suit you well.
Instructional Depth
With synchronous online learning, you interact regularly and frequently
with your professors and can get to know them. This provides regular
opportunities for face-to-face discussion, individual guidance, and
mentorship without having to schedule independent appointments. If
you do your best work when you have accessible and supportive
instruction, you’re probably a synchronous learner.
What are the disadvantages of synchronous learning?
Rigid Schedule
If you’ve chosen online learning because of your hectic and
unpredictable work schedule, synchronous learning may cause
problems. If your job as a registered nurse keeps you on call at strange
hours, or your parenting responsibilities render you fully occupied
during the day time, or your hobby as an amateur storm-chaser means
that you have to be ready to roll at a moment’s notice, you may have a
hard time keeping up with the set schedule of a synchronous online
course. If flexibility is the number one reason that you’ve chosen the
online route, having to adapt to a synchronous learning schedule may
defeat the purpose.
Technical Difficulties
If your work or life requires extensive travel and you often find yourself
completing coursework in weird places like coffee shops, airport
terminals, and hotel lobbies, synchronous learning might add to your
stress. The constant search for a wireless signal becomes even more
dire when you’re on the clock for a videoconference, lecture, or even
an exam. For synchronous learners, technical difficulties like spotty
internet, crashing hard drives, and dying batteries can become full-
fledged, GPA-tanking disasters. Instead of logging in and sitting for your
exam, you can end up sputtering profanities at your computer. And who
has the time for that?
If synchronous learning presents you with scheduling challenges, check
out our tips for effective time management in online college.
