Synchronous vs. Asynchronous e-Learning

A definitive comparison between synchronous and asynchronous e-learning

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous e-Learning: Which is the Right Fit for Learners?

E-learning has opened a wide range of possibilities for companies to enhance the skills of their manpower.It allows employees to learn

various new skills and also successfully complete mandatory training.However, while implementing the same, the management has to

decide which one out of synchronous and asynchronous e-learning would be more efficient to support the learners.

The management can also allow the learners to benefit from both synchronous and asynchronous e-learning,while focusing on fulfilling

the learning objective. Paradiso LMS offers synchronous and asynchronous e-learning solutions to deliver lasting learning experiences to its clients.

Before moving further with synchronous vs. asynchronous e-learning, it is essential to know that both the modes of e-learning have their

own set of advantages and drawbacks. Hence, which one would be more efficient for any company? This has been discussed below.

Synchronous and Asynchronous e-Learning

Any type of learning which takes place in real time is known as synchronous e-learning. In this type of learning, a group of people engage in

productive interactions simultaneously from different locations. It allows the learners to ask questions and answers, while also

collaborating easily with their co-learners.

Synchronous e-learning is a popular choice in employee training. It provides employees with real-time information about new company policies and software introduced. If implemented properly, synchronous e-learning simplifies employee, client, and partner training by creating an invaluable feedback loop.

Some examples of synchronous learning include:

live web  Live webinars
virtual classroom  Virtual classrooms
confernece  Video conference
messaging  Instant messaging

Asynchronous e-learning, on the other hand, is more focused on the learners. Using this mode of e-learning, users can complete their courses at any place and any time, by overcoming temporal and physical boundaries. They can access their course content online whenever they are free.
Asynchronous e-learning allows the opportunity of feedback, although it doesn’t take place then and there. Learners can share their opinions and thoughts with the instructors and fellow learners when they go online again at a future date. Asynchronous e-learning lacks the advantage of instant response.

Some examples of asynchronous learning include:

bullet-min  Blogs
bullet-min Pre-recorded lectures
bullet-min E-mails
bullet-min Online forums & discussion boards

Synchronous and Asynchronous e-Learning Provide a Mixed bag of Offerings

Synchronous and asynchronous e-learning have their own bag of pros and cons. A feature which appeals to one learner may not appeal to

another.Here, we have highlighted some of advantages and disadvantages of the both:

Advantages of Synchronous e-Learning
Disadvantages of Synchronous e-Learning
  • It provides the option of interactivity between the instructors and the learners. This also makes group activities possible.
  •  
  • It takes place in real time, allowing learners to quickly share information with each other.
  •  
  • In case of any doubt, learners can ask their queries to the instructors and receive instantaneous feedback.
  •  
  • Learners have to maintain a specific schedule. They have to remain online to attend certain webinars at specific time periods.
  • Sometimes during group-focused sessions, many learners feel that they aren’t being given proper attention. This, in turn, hampers their performance.
  • The quality of synchronous e-learning sessions also depends on the instructors. If the instructors are not competent enough, the online sessions won’t create much positive impact.
Advantages of Asynchronous e-Learning
Disadvantages of Asynchronous e-Learning
  • It provides the option of flexibility. Although there is a set deadline, users can learn at their own pace from any place and any time.
  •  
  • It allows learners to engage in courses in accordance with their location and time zone.
  •  
  • It provides the learners with more time to understand and reflect on the material they are provided with.
  •  
  • It limits the communication between the learners and the instructors. Learners cannot receive the answers to their queries instantly.
  •  
  • The lack of interaction between learners and instructors makes them feel isolated. This hampers the motivation and engagement of learners.
  •  
  • It doesn’t provide learners the opportunities of live collaboration and real-time activities

Which is the Best Option for the Learners?

The mode of learning an organization or institution opts for mostly depends on the learning objectives, type of course content, training, and

availability of learners. However, using the blended formula of both synchronous and asynchronous e-learning is a winning formula. Although,

asynchronous e-learning provides learners with the flexibility to learn at their own pace at the given place or time of their choice.

No matter what mode an organization chooses, ensuring variety is the best way to achieve the best results. A combination of visual elements,

images, texts, and graphical elements in the learning creates a lasting impact and keeps the learners engaged.

Want to Speak to one of our Experienced e-Learning Consultants?

Book a Demo to know more about our Excellent LMS Platform

and its Promising benefits!

 

Privacy & Cookies Policy