Asynchronous and Synchronous Interactions

1. Asynchronous and Synchronous Interactions Yahira L. Avilés Díaz Walden University EDUC 7102

2. Asynchronous Interactions • Asynchronous e-learning, commonly facilitated by media such as e-mail and discussion boards, supports work relations among learners and with teachers, even when participants cannot be online at the same time. It is thus a key component of flexible e-learning (Hrastinski, 2008).

3. Impact • Allows learners to access curriculum resources at anytime (Hrastinski, 2008). • Allows combining education with work, family, and other commitments. • Time flexible • download documents • send messages to teachers or peers

4. Application and Best Practices • Interactions among classmates and instructors are possible through e-mails and discussion boards • Allow students to plan prior submitting their responses (Hrastinski, 2008).

5. Synchronous Interactions • “Synchronous e-learning, commonly supported by media such as videoconferencing and chat, has the potential to support e-learners in the development of learning communities. Learners and teachers experience synchronous e-learning as more social and avoid frustration by asking and answering questions in real time” (Hrastinski, 2008).

6. Impact • Synchronous interactions are made possible throughout videoconferencing and chat. • Synchronous environments provide students with social and/or real time support; therefore, students do not feel isolated on their academic endeavor (Hrastinski, 2008). • Throughout synchronous environment, students get acquainted, collaborate in group discussions, exchange point of views, and plan tasks. • Synchronous sessions help e-learners feel like participants rather than isolates:

7. Application and Best Practices • Blended methods could benefit students that are enrolled on distance learning programs.

8. Think About It:

9. References