Asynchronous and Synchronous learning

Technology has changed over the years with a demand for educators to use a mixture of technology to increase the effectiveness of student learning. Moore and Kearsley (2005) state “a mixture of media is more effective for providing instruction to a large and varied student body, since this allows different types of students to find the combination that suits them best” (pg. 246). A comparative analysis of asynchronous & synchronous technologies was the first assignment due for this class. I chose to discuss Eluminate (synchronous) and Blackboard (asynchronous) technology while looking at their collective features, technological/pedagogical views, and key strengths/ limitations. An understanding of asynchronous and synchronous learning were defined and compared within the framework of distance education while shaping the importance of using various media for student learning.

Elluminate Live software allows students the opportunity to participate in group learning (live real-time interaction) while at different physical locations using tools such as live chat area, virtual field trips, and discussion boards for collaborative learning. Students can interact with classmates and Instructors can share links and documents to guide the discussion. Conversely, Blackboard software allows the same students to choose when they want to participate. This software gives educators the opportunity to create learning environments for collaborative learning using discussion boards, e-mail and chat tools. Educators have course management support and students have the flexibility to log-in at any times to browse course documents, discussion threads, tutorials, and/or portfolios.

From the technological point of view, student learning is dependent on software selected from institutions. Bates & Poole (2003) state “the majority of the system relies on the functionality of “loading and storing of content in the form of text, graphics, or multimedia objects, discussion forums, and online testing” (pg. 254). Together, Elluminate and Blackboard work in partnership for student learning and teacher support for blended learning. The pedagogical point of view, Moore and Kearsley (2005) states “Distance Education has evolved with advance technology and has given teachers the opportunity to communicate with students to improve teaching-learning relationships” (pg. 222). Together, Elluminate and Blackboard offers teachers the opportunity to have live student discussions and group collaboration giving teachers the ability to develop student-centered learning activities for diverse learning styles.

Saba (2006) discusses “synchronously and asynchronously, as modes of communication, not learning” (pg. 6). Integration of software allows instructors the opportunity to engage and improve the quality of student learning. Both Elluminate and Blackboard allows blending of synchronous and asynchronous elements needed to engage student learning.


References:

Bates, A.W., & Poole, G. (2003). Effective teaching with technology in higher education: Foundations for success. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Blackboard. Increase the impact. Transform the experience. Retrieved June 29, 2009, from http://www.blackboard.com/

Elluminate Live! (n.d.). Live elearning solution & collaboration solution software. Retrieved June 29, 2009, from http://www.elluminate.com

Elluminate Live! (n.d). Top Ten Ways of Using Elluminate Live! Retrieved June 29, 2009, from http://www.elluminate.com/whitepapers/Top_Ten_Ways_of_Using_Elluminate.pdf

Moore, M. G., & Kearsley, G. (2005). Distance education: A systems view (2nd ed.) . Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

Saba , F. (2006). On Asynchronous Learning. Retrieved July 18, 2008, from http://www.distance-educator.com/blog/saba/?p=6