In today’s digital world, online learning provides options for teaching coursework to college or university students, including synchronous and asynchronous learning.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning: The Basics

Both synchronous and asynchronous learning are available methods for online instruction. They differ in the delivery of coursework and student interaction, however.

Synchronous Learning

Synchronous learning involves students being either in-classroom or in an online learning environment at the same time. During class, students can interact with their instructors and other students in real-time. If online, students do this through web conferencing tools or chat rooms.

In an online synchronous learning environment, you’ll need to teach your students in real-time via teleconferencing tools such as Zoom or Google Meet. You can schedule your classes just like a traditional classroom and require your students to join at predetermined times.

Once your students log in, you can take attendance and proceed with your lecture. During class, your students will need to interact and ask questions via webcam, chat or message boards. If you require group work, teleconferencing tools can also be used to break students into small groups.

As for assignments, students can complete them as they would in a traditional classroom setting and return them to you digitally. Synchronous learning is often used for courses that require physical demonstrations or immediate discussion.

Asynchronous Learning

Asynchronous learning allows students to enter their online learning environment and complete coursework on their own time. Asynchronous learning doesn’t require students or instructors to be inside the learning environment together.

In an asynchronous learning environment, you’ll pre-record your lectures and prepare course materials ahead of time. Students can access their learning materials from the course portal at any time, day or night, on their own time. You have the option to allow students to choose which materials they finish first or you can set the pace by scheduling materials in a specific order.

After students watch or listen to the audio or video lecture, you can then require students to take a quiz or complete an assignment before moving forward. Students can interact with one another via message boards and chat rooms, which are also great for facilitating group work.

Asynchronous instructors can also offer optional face-to-face instruction for students who want or need it via online office hours or class meetings.

Which Type of Learning Will Work Best for Your Classroom?

As more and more students opt for online learning, the topic of synchronous learning vs. asynchronous learning is hot within the education community. Which is best for your classroom?

In this section, we’ll discuss examples of synchronous vs. asynchronous learning, as well as the pros and cons of each.

Sync Learning Procs

  • Immediate feedback: Students can deliver immediate feedback to instructors during synchronous learning sessions. Plus, they can engage in classroom discussions in real-time.
  • Structured classes: Structure simplifies learning, as students will have a set schedule for classes each day.
  • Interaction with peers: Discussion and conversation can happen in real-time, delivering the social interaction students need for a complete classroom experience.
  • Immersive learning experience: Instructors can deliver live presentations and demonstrations regarding course material. If students have questions or need additional support, all they have to do is ask.

Sync Learning Cons

  • Equipment requirements: Unfortunately, synchronous learning requires students to have webcams and microphones as well as a strong internet connection. This equipment might be difficult for some students to access.
  • Lack of flexibility: Students who must work or take care of their families during the day will find that synchronous study isn’t an option for them. This is also true for those who have other commitments beyond their education.
  • Time barriers: Most college programs will include students from varying time zones. This can create barriers when trying to schedule lectures and classroom study.

Async Learning Pros

  • Coursework flexibility: Students can complete their coursework on their own time. This enables them to have the work/life/school balance they need to thrive.
  • Enhanced accessibility: Asynchronous learning eliminates the need for students to be able to access a strong enough internet connection to run video conferencing tools from home. As a result, more students can take part in asynchronous learning environments.
  • Student-paced work: Asynchronous learning allows students to complete course materials at their own pace. And studies show that self-paced learning leads to better outcomes for students.
  • Time savings for instructors: Through asynchronous learning tools, instructors can record all course materials ahead of time, reducing their workload during each semester.

Async Learning Cons

  • Lack of social interaction: Although discussion boards and chat rooms provide opportunities for interaction, asynchronous environments don’t allow for face-to-face interaction with instructors or peers.
  • Increased distractions: Students must complete coursework in their own environments without instructor supervision, which can lead to distraction.
  • Potential learning difficulties: Students who learn best through physical instruction and demonstration may have difficulty with asynchronous course material.

What Do Professors & Students Prefer?

Some students prefer synchronous learning for its structured learning and the ability to ask questions in real-time. Other students prefer the flexibility asynchronous learning offers.

Professors deciding which is best for their classrooms also share varying preferences. Some professors prefer the rigid schedule that synchronous learning provides, so students don’t fall behind. Others must provide instruction to students with varying needs, so asynchronous learning is their choice.

There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to selecting the best method for your classroom. It all comes down to what you believe your students need for success. If you’re a professor, consider asking your students if they have a preference. You could also talk to other professors to see what worked best for them.

Learn More About Effective Teaching & Learning

Lumen Learning provides tools that enhance teaching and learning. Our award-winning digital courseware is a great choice for asynchronous learning environments. To learn more about Lumen Learning, our available courses or how we can support your classroom, contact us today.