The advantages of Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous learning is designed for students to have the flexibility needed for school. The flexibility is for most adult learners because it allows students to log in to the online learning environment at any time needed. Students do not have to be online at a certain time, only to post assignments before a specific deadline. This allows students to spend more time doing their work and making sure they have the time allotted to thurly complete each assignment without rushing. This type of learning style allows students to focus on peer to peer relationships and self study. Students can have open class discussions through discussion boards, blogs, email and threads for new postings.
The disadvantages of Asynchronous learning
The disadvantages of Asynchronous learning are it is not for all adult learners. Most adult learners have been attending school for different reasons and might only be use to face-to-face interaction. Changing modalities can cause adult learners to have to adjust to not being able to receive instant feedback when needed. Most adult learners will feel secluded and miss the interaction with their peers in class. Learning the online environment technology might be challenging and requires more time that what is needed for the adult learner is willing to give.
The advantages of Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning is similar to in class instruction for adult learners. It allows adult learners to have instant feedback from the instructor and peers in the classroom. Adult learners enjoy having instant feedback when they have a question and when feedback is given it allows them to move forward into the next question they might have. Adults tend to ask more questions in class because the instructor will be able to clarify their problem. Adult learners tend to be more motivated in class because they can communicate and socialize with their peers and instructors. Real time interaction with peers helps build momentum, motivation, encouragement and cohesion. Face-to-face interaction is important with synchronous learning and having the ability to have a live virtual classroom type setting is also important for adult learners.
The disadvantages of Synchronous Learning
Face-to-face interaction isn’t always for every adult learner. Some adult learners do not like the live virtual learning and therefore, will not participate in class. Some adult leaners learn better within the online environment because they feel free to communicate openly without others seeing or knowing who they are. The freedom of speech and knowing they can voice their opinions without anyone seeing them in class.
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