LE4

Welcome to Learning Event 4 🎯

Time is Precious…Spend It Wisely 🌟

Learning Event 4 explores the effective use of synchronous and asynchronous communication to connect with students and foster learning. In an online or blended learning environment, understanding these approaches is essential to maximize engagement and support.

Why It Matters

Synchronous communication occurs in real-time, fostering immediate interaction and feedback. Examples include video conferences (e.g., Zoom, Skype) and chat rooms, which allow learners to:

• Engage in real-time discussions.
• Build connections through verbalizing and exploring concepts.
• Receive immediate feedback.

Asynchronous communication, by contrast, involves a time lag. Examples include discussion forums and email, which allow learners to:

• Reflect and respond thoughtfully.
• Internalize concepts and explore topics at their own pace.
• Manage their schedules more flexibly.

Both approaches have unique strengths and challenges. The key is to choose the right method for your content, goals, and learners.

READ 📖

1. Asynchronous and Synchronous E-Learning – Stefan Hrastinski
   “…three types of communication in particular are important for building and sustaining e-learning communities: content-related communication, planning of tasks, and social support.”

2. Benefits of Synchronous and Asynchronous e-Learning – Michael Higley
   “Synchronous and asynchronous learning technologies improve the quality of interactions, foster engagement, and enhance outcomes.”

3. Synchronous and Asynchronous Text-Based CMC in Educational Contexts – Genevieve Marie Johnson
   “Students using both forms of communication were the most likely to complete required course activities.”

WATCH 🎥

1. Synchronous & Asynchronous Learning in an Online Course (6:43)
2. 8 Lessons Learned from Teaching Online (4:11)
3. Synchronous and Asynchronous Activities in Blended Learning (9:09)

DISCUSS 💬

How can we leverage synchronous and asynchronous communication to support all learners effectively?

DO ✍️

Reflect on Your Course Design:

Examine your content, pedagogical strategies, and learners to identify opportunities for integrating synchronous and asynchronous communication.

Self-Check:

When deciding between synchronous and asynchronous communication, consider:

1. Student Needs:

   • Do students benefit from peer interaction (e.g., group discussions)?
   • Is flexibility important due to work, family, or time zone differences?

2. Content Complexity:

   • Does your content require real-time explanation and context (synchronous)?
   • Is it better suited for reflection and individual exploration (asynchronous)?

3. Technology Access:

   • Can all students and instructors reliably access the necessary tools?

4. Time Constraints:

   • Are students balancing other responsibilities that require flexible schedules?

Share Your Work!

We’d love to hear how you applied this Learning Event in your courses. Email us at hello@digitallyliterate.net to share your experiences!