I think most people agree to the idea of communication being a critical aspect of learning as we discuss and explore new ideas. However, when learning moves from a face to face environment into the online elearning arena, the type of communication to insure effective learning needs to be addressed. Should learning be driven online as a timed and structured event where everyone is moving at the same pace and schedule with real-time chat rooms (synchronous) or do students learn effectively in a more self-paced environment (asynchronous)? Or should the two be blended to create the ultimate elearning experience?
Synchronous versus asynchronous learning


In a blog post addressing the pros and cons of synchronous versus asynchronous, the author describes the two types of learning facilitation. (Paula, 2018) She details some of the positive qualities of real-time synchronous learning as more of a social interaction with immediate feedback and answers and the down side of synchronous learning is timing constraints, lack of one-to-one time with the instructor, and dependence on facilitators being well planned. Paula lists the pros of anytime anywhere asynchronous training as the obvious flexibility offered and the reflection time given to students; the cons were mostly concerning the lack of structured interaction with the class creating a lack of engagement and motivation among the students. (2018)
I agree with most of observations made by the blog. However, I think there is also an aspect of communication impacted by people being people. Facilitators or instructors play a huge role in maintaining communication in elearning environments.  Perceptions among the learners play an important role in the success of students. C.S.L. Ng, W.S. Cheung & K.F. Hew researched peer facilitation in asynchronous discussions and found traits such as being considerate and appreciative supported online discourse. (2012, Ng) However, their research also discovered discussion facilitators need to be cautious in accidentally isolating some students by creating a non-inclusive environment with their comments or directed questions. (2012)

As an additional note to the discussions of asynchronous and synchronous learning, Linda Sudlesky provides great information in the her video describing when to use one or the other or even a blend of the two. (Sudlesky, 2016)  I particularly like how she introduces a technique by W. Horton she refers to as the Absorb-Do-Connect formula. (2016)

 In my opinion, the blend of the two is ideal. In a current course I am taking, I enjoy the synchronous communication options available with the instructor in a one-on-one or small group. I also like being able to interact with my peers in an asynchronous fashion which fits my schedule.


Sources:
Ng, C. S., Cheung, W. S., & Hew, K. F. (2012). Interaction in asynchronous discussion forums: peer facilitation techniques. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 28(3), 280-294.

 Paula. (2018, October 18) Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning: Which is Right for your Learners? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.learnupon.com/blog/synchronous-learning-asynchronous-learning/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNuYcAHVALM&t=161s
Sudlesky, L. (2016, August 18). Retrieved February 03, 2019, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNuYcAHVALM&t=161s

Comments

  1. MollyFebruary 6, 2019 at 12:45 PM

    Alicia, I too, see a blend of synchronous and asynchronous as ideal in creating an engaging course or training. The trick for the faculty is to achieve a balance because individual synchronous meetings can be a heavy workload.

    ReplyDelete

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