Asynchronous discussion forums allow users to read and critically think through their answer to a question, then type their answer and re-read it to ensure that he or she is relating the information intended. This also gives shy users or those with language barriers and slow readers time to reflect on the discussion and what is actually being asked before posting a reply. This, in turn, encourages those users to participate whereas a synchronous discussion may move too quickly and deter those users from participation.
