What is Synchronous learning?

Synchronous learning is a type of online learning where learners and instructors participate in real-time activities together, such as live video conferencing, chat rooms, or virtual classrooms. In other words, everyone is engaging with the material at the same time.

Why is synchronous learning important? 

1. Real-time interaction: Synchronous learning allows learners and instructors to interact in real-time, which can lead to more engaging and dynamic learning experiences. Learners can ask questions, get immediate feedback, and collaborate with their peers, which can enhance their understanding of the material.

2. Increased engagement: Synchronous learning can be more engaging than asynchronous learning because learners are actively participating in real-time activities, which can help to keep them motivated and focused on the material.

3. Community building: Synchronous learning can help to build a sense of community among learners and instructors. Learners can engage in group discussions, work on group projects, and provide support to one another, which can create a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

4. Effective for complex material: Synchronous learning can be particularly effective for complex or challenging material because learners can get immediate feedback and ask questions in real-time. This can help them to better understand the material and overcome any difficulties they may be having.

5. Replicates traditional classroom: Synchronous learning can replicate some of the benefits of traditional classroom-based learning, such as face-to-face interaction and immediate feedback. This can make it a more familiar and comfortable learning environment for learners who may be used to traditional classroom-based learning.

Where is synchronous learning used?

1. Distance education: Synchronous learning is often used in distance education to provide learners with access to real-time lectures, discussions, and other interactive activities. This can be particularly useful for learners who are unable to attend traditional classroom-based courses due to geographic or scheduling constraints.

2. Continuing education: Synchronous learning can be used for continuing education and professional development programs. This allows learners to engage in real-time discussions with instructors and other professionals in their field, which can enhance their knowledge and skills.

3. Corporate training: Synchronous learning can be used for corporate training programs, where employees can participate in real-time training sessions with their colleagues and instructors. This can help to standardize training across an organization and ensure that all employees receive the same information.

4. Language learning: Synchronous learning can be used for language learning programs, where learners can engage in real-time conversation practice with native speakers and other learners. This can help to improve their language skills and build their confidence in speaking the language.

5. Exam preparation: Synchronous learning can be used for exam preparation courses, where learners can engage in real-time discussions with instructors and other learners to clarify difficult concepts and ask questions. This can help to improve their understanding of the material and increase their chances of success on the exam.

Benefits of synchronous learning

1. Real-time interaction: Synchronous learning provides real-time interaction between learners and instructors, which can enhance engagement and participation. 

2. Personalized learning: Synchronous learning can provide personalized learning experiences, where instructors can tailor the learning experience to meet the specific needs of individual learners. 

3. Collaboration: Synchronous learning promotes collaboration among learners, allowing them to work together on group projects, engage in discussions, and learn from each other. For example, learners can participate in breakout rooms during virtual classes to collaborate on assignments or discuss course content.

4. Accountability: Synchronous learning provides a sense of accountability for learners, as they are expected to attend and participate in live sessions. This can help to keep learners on track with their coursework and provide motivation to stay engaged with the material.

5. Immediate feedback: Synchronous learning provides learners with immediate feedback, which can help to reinforce learning and identify areas for improvement. For example, instructors can use live polls or quizzes during virtual classes to assess learners' understanding of course content in real-time.

Drawbacks of synchronous learning

1. Scheduling conflicts: Synchronous learning requires learners to attend live sessions, which can be challenging for those with scheduling conflicts. For example, learners with work or family obligations may struggle to attend live classes during regular business hours.

2. Technical difficulties: Synchronous learning relies heavily on technology, which can be prone to technical difficulties such as internet connectivity issues or software glitches. For example, learners may experience difficulty accessing virtual classes due to slow internet speeds or software incompatibility.

3. Limited flexibility: Synchronous learning may not offer the same level of flexibility as asynchronous learning, as learners are required to attend live sessions at specific times. For example, learners may not be able to access course materials or participate in group discussions outside of scheduled class times.

‍Cost: Synchronous learning may be more expensive than asynchronous learning, as it often requires specialized technology and instructor time.