The main lesson here was the difference between synchronous and asynchronous teaching through an online platform. There are many benefits to both styles but it is important to utilize, understand and know the difference between the two, this will help with your own method of teaching as well. Second lesson was that communication is key especially for online teaching.
At the University of Phoenix, we were an asynchronous classroom where adult learners could learn at their own pace in their own time zones without borders. Some classes were also offered synchronously at Phoenix so that course directors could evaluate the effectiveness and progress each of us were making towards completion of our MSN and EDD degrees. I don't think one or the other is the answer, both work to meet the needs of all learner types. The more independant learner can thrive in the completely synchronous environment.
Dr. Miller
The use of discusson boards is a helpful tool in creating an asynchronous learning enviroment. I participated in online learning and feel like this was an excellent way to have a group discussion, at everyones pace.
II have learned that a main component of teaching and learning is communicating with the students.
Both synchronous and asynchronous courses have advantages and disadvantages. Both require an effective pattern of teaching.
Communicate clearly and ensure communication is proficient.
Moodle and Zoom pretty much cover all the differnt technologies and types covered.
This module addressed the differences between Asynchronous and Synchronous teaching including the advantages and disadvantages of each method. If both of these methods are done correctly and good communication is established with the students, then it can be effective. This requires good time management and organizational skills on behalf of the instructor and students.
I have learned it is important to know which method of online learning will help the student learn best. Also that having a clear communication is very important.
Setting up discussion post not only allows communication between students. It also allows the students to ask quesitons.
I have and do both asynch and synch online instruction. Most prefer asynch simply due to scheduling and flexibility. If/when synch is used, it needs to be rewarded to incent students to utilize it. If there is no reward, the attendance suffers.
I plan on using both synchronous and asynchronous techniques. I feel that they both have a place in the online learning environment. For example, I belive that course lecture should be synchronous giving the learner the opportunity to ask questions in real-time. Having questions answered in real-time, especially if the content is very technical, can alleviate the learners anxiety. However, answering posted questions, in my opinion, should be offered in an asynchronous mode. Also, I feel that learners must submit their answeres before being allowed to see the postings of other learners.
Consistency is key when developing an online course. Having a consistent way in which a course is structured helps students know what to expect and where to consistently find things.
It is important to have both synchronus and asynchronus sessions as synchronus allows for freer communication and helps to ensure that students understand the concepts or instructions and it allows them to learn from each other. asynchronus allows for aldult learning and gives freedom to the student to respond at a time that is best for them.
I learned that to organize a course content you have a differents methods to develop the material.
A pattern of teaching basically characterizes how an instructor provides information to students and how his/her virtual classroom practice becomes obvious as it is repeated consistently over a period of time.
Communication and organization are the key to a successful online course in both syncronous and asyncronous.
There are apprpraite moments for both synchromous and asynchronous learning. Some students like the live interaction with the instructor, howveer, some students (may be due to time zone differences) are unablet o be live, but should still have the benefit of having a lively discussion and interaction via a recorded lecture. There are positives to both types.
Whether synchronus or asynchronus a course will only be successful with consistency and communication from the instructor.
My personal opinion, not all students can study with an asynchronous method, there must be commitment, time and concentration to achieve effective learning. There is a population of students who have to study synchronously in a real-time environment in order to achieve this learning and be focused on the subject.
