What are "synchronous" and "asynchronous"?

Successful online learning environments combine synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods. Live synchronous sessions are usually held in a web-based video conferencing platform like Adobe Connect, Skype, or Google Hangout, though most Arts & Sciences online classes make prominent use of Adobe Connect. In these sessions, students and professors are online and logged into a class session at the same time. Outside of these synchronous sessions, the Canvas course site is used as the asynchronous platform.

While the benefits of synchronous session include real time communication, and instant response, it's commonly mistaken for being the central part of the whole online learning experience.

Teaching asynchronously provides an opportunity for the students to work at their own pace and gives them time to think over ideas or questions that they might want to share with the rest of the class. It's important for the instructors to use all (or most of) the features available on a learning management system like Canvas. These include but are not limited to: discussion forums, blogs, quizzes, group projects, collaborations, etc.

With smart usage of online tools, an asynchronous learning experience can be interactive and involving. Then the synchronous sessions can be used for Q&A, active discussion, engagement, and inquiry-based course material.

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