The Next Chapter: Synchronous Learning vs. Asynchronous Learning

Ahh, yes, this will be my future, just another seat with another little child who will probably be on her phone anyways. This fits well as I approach my latest blog entry. Our life is focused around technology! As I have begun the second half of my online teaching course, we focused on synchronous learning versus asynchronous learning as well as learning how to become an administrator on a community board such as Blackboard Collaborate. What a way to start the second half...many new things to learn, many new things to try, and figuring out the time to do it all!

Synchronous Learning has many benefits including the ability for students and teachers to participate simultaneously in the learning process, no matter the distance our students may be from each other. I must admit that I love this concept! There are many benefits including how it can reach out to so many people at the same time, provide immediate feedback, be highly motivating, and have a quick feeling of community (telepresence). Asynchronous Learning has its perks too including flexibility, more time to reflect or let the information process, and accessing homework and activities from home.  It can be cost effective (no pressure to have your computer/Internet working at that precise moment).

I love both ideas! Each side had features that I need and would be looking to use in my current position or what I would want to use if I become an online teacher. I know that I feel highly motivated and can tell my brain is engaged when I participate in my own synchronous learning through this class I am taking now.  However, I appreciate being able to breathe and slow down and let all the new information soak in when it involves asynchronous learning.

I will also be soon embarking on an adventure of becoming my own administrator to the Blackboard Collaborate. This will be completely new and nerve wracking to me, but I will open my arms up to the challenge. I loved being a participant, and it seemed easy to work around, and therefore, I will see what this new adventure brings! To be continued...