Asynchronous
Overview
Asynchronous learning is learning that happens independant of time and space. Learners are able to interact with course materials and with each other at a time of their choosing. A discussion thread is an example of an asynchronous learning. One learner can post a thought, and hours (or days) later, another learner can comment on the posting.
Asynchronous learning gives elearning much of its appeal. Traditionally, students needed to be physically present to engage in learning with other students. Now, learners can engage each other when it is most convenient...and, a knowledge trail is left of discussions. In synchronous learning the discussion vanishes (unless it is recorded and indexed)...asynchronously, students that are trailing behind in course work still receive the benefit of being able to read discussion posts.
| Asynchronous learning frees elearning from the requirements of time and space. This is perhaps the most revolutionary aspect of elearning. Learners across different time zones and different continents can now participate in the same courses. Content can be explored and discussed in great depth - allowing learners time to reflect and formulate thoughtful responses. Asyncrhonous tools like listservs, email, discussion forums have transformed how people communicate and share knowledge. |
Resources
Asynchrnous
Learning Networks
"Asynchronous Learning Networks (ALN) are people networks for anytime
- anywhere learning. ALN combines self-study with substantial, rapid,
asynchronous interactivity with others. In ALN learners use computer and
communications technologies to work with remote learning resources, including
coaches and other learners, but without the requirement to be online at
the same time. The most common ALN communication tool is the World Wide
Web."
Changing
the Interface of Education with Revolutionary Learning Technologies
Offers a valuable chart of five fundamental learning styles for asynchronous
instruction.
Synchronous
vs. Asynchronous: Some Thoughts
"The topic at hand in synchronous vs. asynchronous communication.
In speaking with thousands of educators all over the world, as I have
the privilege of having done and continue to do, I am always a little
surprised when people speak of asynchronous communication as the necessary,
but vastly inferior alternative to synchronous communication. Keep in
mind, not everyone tells me this, but enough do that it caught my attention.
It is their view that once the infrastructure and software for high quality
synchronous communication is ubiquitous, asynchronous communication will
go away. The only reason we use it now is because it is cheap and plentiful,
and the bandwidth, software and equipment needed for synchronous is not
quite there yet. I couldn't disagree more."
Supporting
Collaborative Learning in Asynchronous Learning Networks
" Asynchronous Learning Networks (ALNs) use Computer-Mediated Communication
(CMC) to support online courses of study, in which anytime, anywhere access
to interactions among the students and the teacher/facilitator is a key
element. The asynchronous nature of the interaction leads to new paradigms
for teaching and learning, with both unique problems of coordination and
unique opportunities to support active, collaborative (group or team-based)
learning. Collaborative learning appears to be crucial to the effectiveness
of online learning environments."
Asynchronous
CAL Modules and Courses
Extensive asynchronous resources listed. See also: Using
Asynchronous Network Courses to Bridge Gaps
Asynchronous
Online Learning Instructor Competencies (.pdf)
"The following asynchronous online learning instructor competencies
come from educational research, as well as personal experience as an online
learning student, instructor, and instructional designer."
JEDlet
Examples of asynchronous tutorials, free demos are available.
All links verified June 2005.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License
