Synchronous learning refers to a group of learners who engage in learning at the same time with an instructor and immediate feedback.
The pros and cons of synchronous learning include:
Pros:
- Real-time interaction with their instructor and peers.
- In-person or remote collaboration with other learners.
- Convenient access to online sessions from anywhere.
- Learners receive instant feedback and answers to questions.
Cons:
- It may be difficult to find a common meeting time for each learner.
- Technical difficulties may occur, including login issues and a weak Wi-Fi connection.
- Learners may struggle with a lack of individual attention due to the group dynamic.
Ready to learn more about synchronous learning? Let’s dive into what synchronous learning is, how it differs from asynchronous learning, and its benefits and disadvantages.
What Is Synchronous Learning?
Synchronous learning refers to a group of learners who engage in learning at the same time with an instructor and immediate feedback.
While the learning occurs at the same time for all participants, synchronous learning doesn’t necessarily have to occur in-person or even at the same location. While asynchronous learning uses self-paced modules or prerecorded video, synchronous learning uses popular tools including:
- Live webinars
- Video conferencing through virtual instructor-led training (VILT)
- Virtual classrooms
Read More: 7 Tips To Look Your Best During Virtual Instructor-Led Training
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning
Asynchronous and synchronous are two types of learning styles that come with their own set of tools and practices. A synchronous approach uses real-time learning where learners can complete courses simultaneously.
With a blended learning program, both asynchronous and synchronous learning styles are combined to create a training program that works for all learners. An example includes starting with a synchronous instructor-led training (ILT), where learners participate in an in-person workshop. Then, learners could be assigned an asynchronous self-paced module, where they complete courses at their own pace on their own time.
Read More: Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning: Which is Right for Your Learners?
Advantages Of Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning comes with the following benefits:
- Real-Time Collaboration — With synchronous learning, learners easily interact in real-time with their instructor and peers in groups.
- Eliminates Isolation — Learners collaborate with others either in-person or from remote locations, eliminating feelings of isolation.
- Convenient — As long as learners have a stable internet connection, they can conveniently access online sessions from anywhere.
- Instant Feedback — Synchronous learning occurs in real-time, so learners receive instant feedback and answers to questions.
Disadvantages Of Synchronous Learning
Although synchronous learning has a variety of pros, it comes with a number of drawbacks.
- Challenging To Find A Common Time — While it can be beneficial to experience real-time collaboration, it may be difficult to find a common meeting time for each learner.
- Technical Difficulties — Synchronous online learning may bring about technical difficulties, including login issues, a weak Wi-Fi connection, and navigation problems.
- Lack Of Individual Attention — Due to the group dynamic of synchronous learning, learners may struggle with the lack of individual attention when learning.
Sync Up With Synchronous Learning!
Now that you know what synchronous learning is and the pros and cons that come with it, it’s time to ask yourself: “Is a synchronous learning approach a good fit for my organization’s learning program?”