Topics:
I wanted to find out (a) where the difficulties arose, and (b) suggestions and advice for success in this modality.
Common Problem Areas that were evident in the readings and videos were:
- Teacher Training – teachers had to develop capability in this type of delivery; understanding and using the various tools that were utilized in courses (video, discussions, wikis, etc.)
- Teacher Knowledge – the facilitator needs to have the content knowledge to develop material and to assist with student inquiries.
- Failing to address student misunderstandings in a timely manner, prior to the student continuing along a wrong path or moving on with other material; not being able to address student questions/concerns in a spontaneous manner
- Classroom Atmosphere – sometimes there can be a disconnect between facilitator and students, and among students.
- Students not watching the videos, or reading the material, as expected for developing a full appreciation or understanding of the material.
- Applying the pressure and support at a specific time when a student may need that extra motivation.
- Lack of spontaneous discussions.
Common Advantages brought forward were:
- Students have time for more analytical and reflective thought.
- The technology allows for the resources to be available at any time; allowing for review.
- Respects the individual for being a self-motivated person.
- Students can skip or move through content that they already know at a faster pace.
- The learning method suits students with busy and unusual life schedules.
- The learning programs are cheaper to produce and deliver.
Lessons Learned:
- Establish relationships earlier, as relationships have been found to be a significant contributor to student completion.
- Suggest definitive time frames for completing the material; usually in one week intervals.
- Ensure that feedback on learning is regular and timely.
References:
Haslam, J (n.d.) Synchronous vs. asynchronous classes. Retrieved from: http://www.elearners.com/online-education-resources/degrees-and-programs/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-classes/
Littlefield, J. (n.d.) Synchronous distance learning vs asynchronous distance learning. Retrieved from: http://distancelearn.about.com/od/choosingaschool/p/LearningTypes.htm
Makhlouf, J. (July 29, 2014) All by myself: The benefits and disadvantages of asynchronous learning. Retrieved from: http://elearningmind.com/benefits-and-disadvantages-of-asynchronous-learning/
Rysicki (2012) Asynchronous learning. Retrieved from: https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=youtube+aschronous+teaching&view=detail&mid=E4B39B02A2B51E3CE783E4B39B02A2B51E3CE783&FORM=VIRE
Walton, P. D. (2015, November 1). Online indigenous university student supports, barriers, and learning preferences. Unpublished report, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC.
(2015). Asynchronous learning: Flipping the classroom. Retrieved from: https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=youtube+aschronous+teaching+benefits+and+disadvantages&view=detail&mid=4FD38A2127BB580433D74FD38A2127BB580433D7&FORM=VIRE