Foundations for Success
3 Synchronous or Asynchronous?
There is a fair chance that you might not know what is meant by the terms: synchronous and asynchronous. So, let’s start there.
For an introduction to definitions and various uses of asynchronous and synchronous learning, see the video below. (Note that this video references Blackboard tool integration; the University of Minnesota uses Canvas which also integrates with a variety of instructional tools).
Instructional Strategies & Best Practices
Many of the online interactive and content delivery strategies that we talk about may be implemented in either a synchronous or an asynchronous format.
How do you know when to use which?
To consider benefits and challenges, see: Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Distance Learning Activities (Johns Hopkins University)
The infographic below provides some tips as well.
Technology Tool Options
Many of the online learning tools we will consider are asynchronous, and there are many to choose from. For synchronous learning, most of you are familiar with Zoom or Google Hangouts which are real-time webinar or meeting tools.
Takeaways
The concepts and options between synchronous and asynchronous will come up repeatedly as you design and teach your online course, e.g., in content delivery, student assessments and activities, learner engagement, and more.
The best advice: Throughout your design and teaching experience, consider which options are best for your students, your content topics, and yourself.
For additional practical ideas, see UMN Guidelines for Online Teaching & Design: Synchronous or Asynchronous Sessions.