Guidelines must be developed whether using synchronous or asynchronous methods. Organization and revision are just an everyday part of online learning when you are the facilitator .
I learned how to set a pattern of teaching so the students can navigate my course comfortably. This again demonstrated to me how critical my level of organization needs to be. As a new online teacher, I will definitely need to plan and practice more extensively and thouroughly in the first classes that I set up and teach in order to provide a rich learning experience for students.
Asynchronous method of learning, student must be on top of their learning experience and be motivated. students cannot procrastinate or they will get behind.
From this module I learned how developing a pattern of teaching in online courses can greatly enchance both teaching and learning. Once a pattern of teaching is established students become comfortable with how the course is presented and know what to expect in course content. The teacher also benefits as this will minimize communication that is centered around issues, allowing more time for focusing on student learning.
"Asynchronous learning networks are designed to provide students with the ultimate anytime, anywhere learning environment. This type of environment is designed to be more of a "student responsibility" environment in which course information is provided to all students and it is their responsibility to read, analyze, and learn the information. Asynchronous learning is designed for self-learning in a constructivist theory type of environment. The constructivist theory indicates learners generate learning and knowledge from their own experiences. This type of learning environment provides students with the ultimate freedom to access the learning environment on their own time, in their own way to achieve learning outcomes. Asynchronous learning is typically more popular as it does provide ultimate flexibility for students in an anytime, anywhere learning environment."
The above statement seems like the greatest advantage for an asynchronous learning environment. As a student in many online classes, I appreciate this type of online set-up. I think this is especially successful for adult learners that are working and trying to continue their education as well. Online teachers must make sure to consider the age and backgrounds of the students when planning and choosing the class formats.
Asycnronous and synchronous courses both have advantages and disadvantages. It is important for the instructor to decide which type of online environment will be provided for the online course. The most important factors for a successful online course are organziation and communications. Students and instructor have to know the learning outcomes and expectations for the course.
I learned the difference between synchronous learning and asynchronous learning. I was also reminded that discussion comments should lead to further discussion of the initial topic, and once students are shown an example of this, it will lead to very engaging conversations that are wholesome and beneficial to all. I will be sure to remind students of proper discussion tactics if an online class is needed.
Once a teacher has established his or her method of teaching on line, they can organize the delivery of the coarse in a manner that makes it easy for the students to complete their tasks with no confusion.
Having a centralized plan will help the students access the functions and communicate with each other as well.
I would agree with others that asyncchronous teaching offers great flexibility for the students and demands effective communication from the instructor and the teachers. Synchronous instruction may alleviate a sense of alienation for some students. Furthermore an instructor may choose to do both within the same course. Whatever is decided it is MOST important for the the instructor th amintain consistency in his/her approach to maximize effectice learning.
Its was interesting to see how the instructor/author of this course, EL104, was able to make clearcut distinctions between Synch. and Asynch. learning; basically able to separate one from the other. Also, a course can include both these methods - online lectures which are recorded and available for students to watch (repeatedly/later).
Course content must be organized to enhance student success.
Having a lms is critical to both students and teachers alike to reduce stress and anxiety. Makes this a very important key in the online learning environme.
our organization, rules, timelines, user-friendly ease and a multitude of teaching abilities and tools must be determined and mastered. Asynchronous or synchronous teaching can be used for different portions of your course. Understand how you will feel comfortable teaching and understand the needs of the student.I have learning communication is extremely important, and guideline must be set .
In the Teaching and Organizing a Virtual Learning Environment class module two, I learned the importance of being organized when teaching an online class. Also, setting guidelines for student responses is required in order to obtain thoughtful and meaningful responses which will result in a better learning environment.
The difference between the two may require different technologies used. Where synchronous may be using a blog to promote an online discussion, this would not be the case in an asynchronous classroom where students are learning and participating at different times.
I like that these can both be implemented effectively if the teacher has a good grasp of how they want to get the students involved. One-on-one or small group meetings can be very helpful synchronously to get everyone on the right page or help explain a particularly tricky topic while asychronous meetings are a good way to have students check in on understanding.
I've learned that both synchronous and asynchronos communication are probably both important for most online courses. Students can learn at their own pace in asynchronous learning which will be great for advanced students who can delve further into the material for further mastery and application of the skills taught while slower students can take their time not feeling completely rushed to gain a better understanding of lessons presented, and working at their pace, may also be more comfortable to pursue further application of the lesson skills. At the same time, I believe the personal face to face time for many classes and presenting mini-lecture and guided practice is important for a feeling of connectedness with one another in learning and help in maintaining a general pace of the class.
I believe a blended online class with synchronous class lesson and meeting anywhere from daily to twice a week be useful in most online courses. This approach would likely be my goal if I were to design an online course or set of courses.
Asynchronistic learning is more common than synchronistic due to student/teacher availability. Whichever is chosen, organization is a major factor for success.
When using syncronous communication be sure students follow guidelines like raising hands electronically, unmuting etc
In preparation students should arrive 15 minutes early to test equiptment-microphones,camera ect.Electronically they can raise their hand for responseand techer will choose student who is assigned a question. Students should use chart room and not the chat area unless instructed.