I have done a lot of reading in the subject of synchronous communication and asynchronous communication learning, and i have found that without this two modes of communication, learning cannot happen in online learning environment. Using this two modes in online learning environment can demonstrate that learners can interact with instructor, content, and other learner. Also I think that these two modes of communication can promote interactive learning. In terms of collaborative learning style, synchronous communication and asynchronous communication can be used as tools to facilitate learning between students, instructors, and content. For instance, students and instructors can use synchronous communication in real-time chat, so those instructors can singh some project for students to work as a group work. However, students can work with asynchronous communication in discussion board as group work in order to discuss their project. Robert’s articles have stated that using asynchronous communication learning can make learning vary collaborative. Also, in the article that i have posted, Black (2005)have stated that asynchronous discussion board provides the interaction between students amongst students, and with instructor, in different time. This communication makes students to be social with learning environment, students can share their experiences with other students; therefore, they can construct their knowledge. Students socially can interact with learning environment by using synchronous communication and asynchronous communication learning which can be seen in different learning online systems such as WebCT, Blackboard, Moodle, and so on.
Black, A. (2005). The use of asynchronous discussion: Creating a text of talk. Contemporary Issuesin Technology and Teacher Education, 5(1), 5-24.
April 20, 2008 at 2:23 pm |
The combination of both synchronous and asynchronous learning adds greater depth to the distributed learning experience by opening up lines of communication, helping to establish a sense of community, and by appealing to different user strengths.
The nice thing about asynchronous discussions is that the learner can mull things over—what they’ve read, what has been posted by another, what was done in class–and, then, carefully craft a response or opinion. For the reflective student, or one who is hesitant to join in group discussions, this empowers them to make their own thoughts known to the group. Comments made here can serve as the focus for later synchronous chats.
Synchronous, real-time learning experiences offer immediacy, brainstorming possibilities, and the opportunity for the discussion to quickly navigate in and around the different facets of a topic. This is great, in that it supports the participatory nature of the more outgoing students. And it provides food for thought for later asynchronous discussions.
They combine to accommodate different learning styles, offer a record of group cognition and understanding, and can serve as the foundation for future learning. This is very useful to students. They also provide formative assessment. This is a great tool for the instructor. Both contribute to the learning experience and the quality of the online learning environment.