Asynchronous v.s. Synchronous Elearning
The modern-day elearning environment can be divided into two categories: synchronous and asynchronous.
Synchronous Elearning
Synchronous e-learning involves online studies through chat and videoconferencing. This kind of learning tool is real-time. It is like a virtual classroom that allows students to ask, and teachers to answer questions instantly, through instant messaging, which is why it is called synchronous. Rather than taking lessons alone, students associating themselves with synchronous elearning software or online courses can easily interact with fellow students and their teachers during the course.
Asynchronous Elearning
On the other hand, Asynchronous learning can be carried out even while the student is offline. Asynchronous elearning involves coursework delivered via web, email and message boards that are then posted on online forums. In such cases, students ideally complete the course at their own pace, by using the internet merely as a support tool rather than volunteering exclusively for elearning software or online interactive classes.
