”New technology is taking over the traditional classroom. This new system is called e-learning.” Webdesign, I. (2019) The e-Learning system is divided into 2 categories: synchronous and asynchronous learning.
What is Synchronous learning?
Synchronous learning is a learning which can occur online through a chat platform. This type of learning can only happen on an online community where it involves online messaging and therefore it cannot occur in a traditional environment. Through this learning process, the students can keep in touch through the online chat by asking questions instantly to their peers or to their teacher.
What is Asynchronous learning?
On the other hand, Asynchronous learning can take place both online and offline as it ”involves coursework delivered via web, email and message boards that are then posted on online forums”. Webdesign, I. (2019)
On the contrary to synchronous learning, through asynchronous learning the students are not able to have instant messaging with the other learners and their teacher. An asynchronous learning enables you to be more ”self-paced” and hence complete your work at your own time. Webdesign, I. (2019)
What is the difference between synchronous learning and asynchronous learning?
Synchronous learning is when the teacher is giving an online lecture at a specific time and during that time, the learners have to interact with other students and answer questions. During that specific time, the teacher is also observing the interaction and enables the educator to give real time feedback.
Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, can be offline and online. It involves of different tasks and lectures which are placed on an online learning platform but can be accessed and completed at your own pace. Therefore, you don’t need to be online at a specific time.
Reflection on my experience: I am currently doing some courses online which involve both synchronous and asynchronous learning. Through experience, I think that both learning types are beneficial because synchronous learning can be effective when having the teacher online to give you real time feedback whilst on the other hand asynchronous learning can be very effective when you have to complete a task not in a specific time. Hence, I think that experiencing both learning styles is beneficial for the learner.
References
Webdesign, I. (2019). Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning: what’s the difference? | Easy LMS. Retrieved from https://www.easy-lms.com/knowledge-center/lms-knowledge-center/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning/item10387
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