27 August 2024
Differences between synchronous and asynchronous learning
Explore the differences between synchronous and asynchronous learning to see how they impact your learning programme.
The terms synchronous and asynchronous learning have become increasingly common in recent years, specifically in relation to online learning.
In fact, both synchronous and asynchronous learning have always been important parts of the learning process. In this article, we will explore both synchronous learning and asynchronous learning, and see the role each can play in helping you to achieve your learning goals.
What is synchronous learning?
Synchronous learning is when a tutor and learners gather together for learning. It involves a real-time exchange of educational information or training.
While classroom learning, lectures and seminars are all obvious examples of synchronous learning, it doesn’t necessarily have to take place online.
In the age of video conferences, webinars and similar events, there are many examples of synchronous online learning.
What is asynchronous learning?
Asynchronous learning is essentially the opposite of synchronous learning. It is when the tutor and learner are not gathered together in person.
With that in mind, asynchronous learning can also be called independent study or self-directed learning. The onus is on the learner to complete the learning in their own time and to communicate with educators or peers over a longer period of time.
A large proportion of online learning is asynchronous learning, but so are offline learning activities such as research projects, written assignments and student presentations.
Synchronous learning pros and cons
Pros
Immediate interaction
Both tutor and learner benefit from spontaneous interactions and immediate feedback. This can help both parties to gauge the level of learning more quickly, and also encourages regular communication.
Faster information exchange
The opportunity for both tutor and learner to ask questions results in a faster information flow. In asynchronous learning, one party may have to wait for a reply from the other. This slows the exchange of information.
Building communities
In both online and offline learning, bringing people together for synchronous learning activities can help to build community, camaraderie and collaboration. This can also drive more positive learning outcomes.
Cons
Scheduling problems
The need to get a tutor and learners together at the same time can sometimes be problematic. Unavailability, sickness and other absences can undermine or completely derail a synchronous learning activity.
Technical issues
Whether it’s WiFi connection problems, faulty screens or even user error, technological issues can ruin synchronous learning tasks for a large number of people in a way that doesn’t happen in asynchronous learning.
Accessibility limitations
Particularly in the case of offline learning, synchronous learning can be less accessible. Geographic locations, transport issues and mobility problems are just a handful of the ways in which accessibility could be an issue.
Asynchronous learning pros and cons
Pros
Learn at your own pace
Asynchronous learning allows each learner to study in their own time at their own pace. This could be intensive learning sessions or short, sharp bursts of learning. Equally, it could involve racing through a course or taking a more methodical approach to deeply understand the subject matter.
More time for reflection
Without the limitation of a time restriction, asynchronous learning can give learners more time to engage with the subject matter and reflect on their learning. This might result in more considered responses to assessments.
Greater accessibility
Asynchronous learning can theoretically be completed any time, anywhere and on any device. This makes it more accessible to learners who would not be able to attend a synchronous learning session due to their location, work schedule, family commitments or a disability.
Cons
Limited communication
Learners will typically have less contact with their tutor and their peers when learning asynchronously than they would if they were attending an event in real-time. Communication may also be stunted as each party waits for a reply from the other.
Need for self-discipline
Self-directed learning requires self-motivation. Not all learners will have the discipline to complete asynchronous learning, and others will not work as productively or be as focused as they might be if involved in synchronous learning.
Loss of social learning
A large proportion of learning is informal learning. It comes from casual interactions with peers and tutors, or from overhearing conversations other people are having. Social learning opportunities are far less frequent with asynchronous learning.
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Get in TouchWhich is best: synchronous and asynchronous learning?
As we’ve discussed, both synchronous and asynchronous learning have advantages and disadvantages. The best option for your organisation will depend on its size, structure and locations, the type of learning you need to deliver and the audiences you need to reach.
In the vast majority of cases, the best option is a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. A large proportion of workplace learning is best completed by each learner at a time and place that suits them.
But whether for practical, logistical or social reasons, sometimes it makes sense for your learners to gather — either online or offline — for synchronous learning activities. Most organisations, courses and learners will benefit when learning and development incorporates both asynchronous and synchronous activities.
Synchronous and asynchronous learning technologies
With everything we’ve discussed in mind, most organisations will benefit from putting in place learning technologies that support a hybrid of synchronous and asynchronous learning. A good example would be a comprehensive and fully customisable LMS with integrated video webinar and support for offline learning.
As we’ve discussed, both synchronous and asynchronous learning have advantages and disadvantages. The best option for your organisation will depend on its size, structure and locations, the type of learning you need to deliver and the audiences you need to reach.
Contact us to discuss how learning technologies can enhance your synchronous and asynchronous learning activities.
