Since synchronous learning is a real-time, same-time environment, students must be online at the same time. Synchronous basically means "at the same time." Therefore, the instructor must schedule a time that is convenient for all students to meet at the same time. In many synchronous courses, this can be a difficult task as time zones, work commitments, and family needs vary from student to student. Therefore, the synchronous environment leads to the development of an instructor who seems to be available 24-7. Rules and regulations must be developed to avoid the personification of a 24-7 instructor so that adequate teaching and learning can take place.
Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, occurs over time in which the instructor and students do not interact at the same time. Like synchronous learning, the instructor and students are not in the same place; however, with asynchronous learning there is a time delay in which an instructor may post course content which students access at a later time. Online courses that are designed so students may complete them in a self-paced environment are an example of asynchronous learning. Learning is based on individuals being online at separate times reviewing content or submitting assignments according to their own schedules. Asynchronous learning uses email and discussion boards which make it possible for users to access the information in an anytime, anywhere environment to meet everyone's needs.
