Synchronous learning tools enable real-time communication and collaboration using audio conferencing, video conferencing, web conferencing, chat, instant messaging, white boarding, and application sharing. The author has used many synchronous tools in their classroom and graduate courses, including Voki for creating speaking avatars, Second Life for 3D virtual worlds, Blackboard Collaborate for virtual classrooms, Google tools like Docs and Sites, Skype for video calling, Adobe Connect for web conferencing, and Moodle as their online classroom platform. While there are disadvantages, the author believes the advantages of synchronous tools outweigh them.

1. Synchronous
Learning Tools
Danielle C. Lamotte
EDTL506-Fall 2012

2. Synchronous Tools…
• Enable real-time communication and
collaboration
• Allows people to connect at one point in time at
the same time
• Examples include:
– Audio conferencing
– Web conferencing
– Video conferencing
– Chat
– Instant messaging
– White boarding
– Application sharing

3. • I’ve used all of the following synchronous
learning tools in my classroom and graduate
courses.
• Although there are some disadvantages to
using synchronous learning tools, I believe the
advantages outweigh them.

4. Voki
• Create your own speaking avatar, with your
voice
• Elicits participation
• Makes using technology FUN!
• Can be posted to any:
– Blog
– Website
– Profile
My favorite is Blabberize!

5. Second Life
• 3D virtual world where you can connect and
collaborate
• WBR Island
– Professional Development
– Resources on one “island”

6. Blackboard Collaborate
• Wimba and Elluminate capabilities combined
• Creates virtual classrooms, offices, and
meeting spaces
• Comprehensive learning platforms:
– Online
– Blended
– Mobile

7. Google
• More than just a web search engine
• My favorite Google tools include:
– Docs (I use the Forms for my students’ online
journals)
– Sites
– Translate (for my ESL students)
• I discovered the meaning of “Google”

8. Skype
• Video calling
• Instant messaging
• Call landlines and mobile phones
• My students read “The Cat in the Hat” to a
class at a local elementary school via Skype

9. Adobe Connect
• Web conferencing software
– Web meetings
– eLearning
– webinars
• Easy to use
• I would like to use this software for some
“distance learning” in my own classroom

10. Moodle
• I use Moodle EVERYDAY!
• Student and parent friendly
• Virtually, my classroom online:
– Online textbook
– Online quizzes
– Notes/handouts/worksheets
– Graphic Organizers
– Videos
– Calendar
Have you checked out Schoology?!