I use the synchronous tools by conducting a tutoring session that occurs every week at the same time. The live lab tutoring session allows the students to participate and interact with me and their peers to discuss coursework as well as industry related questions. I believe that a weekly synchronous atmosphere allows the students to plan accordingly to attend. In addition as an incentive to increase the student attendees and to promote interrelationships I grant participation credit for those students who attends the weekly synchronous sessions.
As far as asynchronous tools the discussion board is where the students collectively as a class have a weekly open forum to discuss the objectives and competencies. I believe the discussion board is a great way to enhance the students learning beyond the textbook because they are learning from both the instructor and their peers.
