E-Learning and Types of E-Learning (Asynchronous and synchronous e learning)

Asynchronous and Synchronous E-learning
A Presentation on

o What is E-learning?
o E-learning is essentially imparting education through computer and network enabled digital
technologies which include, internet, intranet, computer, satellite TV, CDROM, audio and
video resources.
o The term e-learning was first used in the professional environment in the year 1999.
Therefore e-learning could be broadly defined as use of information and communication
technology (ICT) to enhance and support learning.
o This could range from teachers and students using e-mail for communication to entirely
online courses.
o This term is used synonymously with virtual learning, online learning, computer based
learning, web based learning, and networked learning.
o E-learning, is currently changing the way schools and colleges teach and the students
learn

The letter "e" in e-learning stands for the word "electronic”.
E-learning would incorporate all educational activities that are carried out by individuals or
groups working online or offline via networked or standalone computers and other
electronic devices.
• Brandon hall defines e-learning as: "...Instruction that is delivered electronically, in part or
wholly via a web browser, through the internet or an intranet, or through multimedia
platforms such as cd-rom or dvd.“
• Rosenberg: "e-learning refers to the use of internet technologies to deliver a broad array
of solutions that enhance knowledge and performance."
o E-learning - Definition
o E-learning is defined by many people, in many ways, since the term e-
learning is used inconsistently, in order to gain a clear understanding
of what e-learning is, here are a few definitions of e-learning.

 Characteristics of E-learning
 E-learning is Learner-Centric Learning
 E-learning for lifelong learning
 E-learning is Flexible Learning
 E-learning is Social
 E-learning Involves Learning Objects
 E-learning is Personalized
 E-learning Involves Effective Communication

CMS, LMS, LCMS – E-learning Tools
CMS or a Content Management System creates the framework in which content is stored and
displayed on a website. These systems manage various content forms, including files, images,
electronic documents, audio files, and many more Without having to convert them to a web
format such as HTML. This requires few specialized skills.
LMS or Learning Management System is an integrated set of software/programs specifically
developed for managing online courses, distributing course materials and allowing collaboration
between students and teachers. It will allow you to manage every aspect of a course, from the
registration of students to the storing of test results, as well as accepting assignments digitally
and being in touch with students.
LCMS or Learning Content Management Systems are primarily used to create, store and
organize e-learning content. Instructional designers use this software to develop, manage and
publish training content. Rather than creating course catalogs for wide audiences, LCMS
platforms allow single courses to be modified for individual learners.

 E-learning - Types
 In today’s e-learning environment the type of learning that takes place is generally divided
into one of two categories: synchronous and asynchronous.
 Synchronous and asynchronous learning refers to different types of online courses and
degree programs, Both having few things in common.
 Both are :
 primarily delivered online,
 accessible via online course modules from your own computer or laptop.
 could be completed from anywhere.
 flexible options, designed to help all kinds of different students earn their degrees on
their own terms.
 Both in some cases, might even be offered by the same program.
 However, beyond that, they can be a little different.

Synchronous E-learning
 Any learning tool that is in real-time, that allows students and teachers to ask and
answer questions immediately, is synchronous.
 In Synchronous E- learning , classes occur on set schedules and time frames.
 Students and instructors are online at the same time in synchronous classes since
lectures, discussions, and presentations take place at specific hours.
 All students must be online at that exact time in order to participate in the class.

 These learning environments offer meaningful interactions in a face-to-face setting and are
most commonly referred to as synchronous learning activities.
 Lectures, discussions, and lesson presentations occur at a specific point in time with the
expectation that all students will be available to participate.
 Synchronous learning environments support learning and teaching and offer students and
teachers with multiple ways of interacting, sharing, and the ability to collaborate and ask
questions in real-time through synchronous learning technologies.
 In an online classroom environment many of the
learning activities and expectations are similar to
those found in a traditional classroom.

 Rather than learning on their own, students who participate in synchronous
learning courses are able to interact with other students and their teachers during
the lesson.
 learners from across the globe can connect virtually to
the online learning tool.
 synchronous E-learning technology/tools include:
video/telephone conferencing, webcasts, virtual classrooms,
live chats, webinars, application sharing, etc.

 Students are given a timeframe – it's usually a one-week window – during which they need to
connect to their class at least once or twice.
 The good news is that in asynchronous courses, you could hit the books no matter what hour
of day (or night).
 A student is able to follow the curriculum at his own pace without having to worry about
scheduling conflicts.
 In Asynchronous learning, students typically complete the lessons on their own and merely
use the internet as a support tool rather than venturing online solely for interactive classes.
Asynchronous E-learning
 Asynchronous classes let students complete their
work on their convenient time.
 learning can be carried out even when the student
or teacher is offline.

 Many students need more time to form their thoughts or consider all the sides of an issue
before offering an opinion, This may be a perfect option for them who enjoy taking their time
with each lesson plan in the curriculum and would prefer to research topics on their own.
 In many learning environments there are learning activities and expectations that require
students to create, synthesize, explain, and apply the content or skills being taught;
 Asynchronous technologies support learning and allow more time for student reflection,
collaboration, and student-to-student interactions
 It is said that asynchronous learning is by far the more popular learning type because many
of the learning tools are free, require minimal hardware, and are used at the student’s pace.
 Instructors provide materials, lectures, tests, and assignments that can be
accessed at any time.
 Overall, students are free to contribute whenever they choose.

Methods to conduct Synchronous Learning
 Chat: Synchronous chat rooms allow multiple users to log in and interact.
This is a great way to ask questions and to share resources and insights.
 Voice (telephone): Some courses might enable you to conference call with
your professor and peers, using either your computer or phone.
 Video or web conferencing: could be an option if you want to mimic a
classroom experience! Using your webcam, you could talk to your professor
face to face, share media (like documents, presentations, and poll questions)
and more! In some cases, you might even be able to save the video to review
again later when you study.
 Live Streaming: Some synchronous learning programs may go a step further
in emulating the traditional classroom, by live streaming your professor’s
lecture, as if you were sitting in the classroom with them! In many cases, this
may also be recorded for later, so you can watch it over again if you missed
something.

Methods to conduct Asynchronous Learning
o Digital Curriculum Materials: This could be anything from uploaded PowerPoint
presentations, document sharing, to podcasts and video streaming. In many cases, these
types of materials could be distributed through the online course module, helping you
stay organized by keeping everything in one place.
o Email: email is a foundational item in all online courses. It's a great tool for asking
questions, keeping in touch, and receiving materials, updates, reminders, and even
assessments.
o Discussion Boards: The discussion board is another pillar in the online learning structure.
Often, this is used to facilitate debates, collaboration, and discussion about course
content.
o Social Networking: Many online courses now incorporate social networking in order to
enhance collaboration and learner interaction. Some learning management systems might
even integrate social networking platforms into the course module, making it easier to
connect with your peers and professors.
o Wikis and Collaborative Documents: These might be used in a few different ways. For one,
wikis could be a great way for your online courses to build and maintain class notes and
references. Wikis and other collaborative documents also facilitate group work.

Synchronous Learning - BENEFITS
Cost-effectiveness: Organizations do not need to spend money on travel and accommodation
expenses like in classroom training; learners can attend the training session right from their
place, and connect to employees from other places virtually.
Instant gratification: Participates can raise queries via instant messaging and get answers
instantly. This helps them gain sound knowledge on the concepts and retain it longer. In
addition, by getting quick answers, people learn from their mistakes and avoid them.
Highly convenient: Organizations can train global employees at one go. Learners can interact
with their peers like a classroom without feeling isolated. In addition, they can attend the
training on any device (desktops, tablets, mobiles, etc.).

Synchronous Learning - LIMITATIONS
Learners should possess technical skills: Learners who attend online training should have
minimum technical knowledge. A lack of computer skills results in dropout rates.
Time constraints: Though distance is not an obstacle, time surely is. Employees across the
globe and the trainer should be online at the same time. This may disturb their work schedules
and in fact, sometimes, technology may not support interactions in real-time.

Asynchronous Learning - BENEFITS
Learn at own pace: Employees can hone their skills round the clock and at their own pace,
without the fear of failing to catch the pace of the instructor. Moreover, they can jot down
doubts while learning and clarify them later with the instructor.
No time constraints: Employees can interact with peers through emails or chats without any
time constraints. This form of learning has no time and distance constraints.

Asynchronous Learning - LIMITATIONS
Cannot get instant feedback: Employees who have doubts in the course material have to wait
until the instructor replies to their emails. This stops employees from taking the course to the
next level until doubts are clarified. This wastes a lot of valuable time.
Does not motivate: Employees get demotivated to login and attend the training sessions due
to a lack of competitiveness, interaction, and live training environment. Importantly, learners
keep on delaying the training, unlike in the synchronous environment, due to a lack of
motivation and interest.

How to choose between the two?
Some students like synchronous courses because they want to feel involved, in real-time, with the
class experience. They might find it rewarding to ask a question or offer a comment, and to receive
instant feedback.
While others may need more time to form their thoughts , in a synchronous classroom, these
students might get overshadowed by faster typists and spontaneous thinkers.
Another perk to studying asynchronously: if your work schedule is on the hectic side, you might not
have to worry about logging on at a specified time each week. Your class schedule could be flexible!
• Cost
• Time
• Level of Learner Collaboration Required
• Availability of Instructors

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