Learn synchronously or asynchronously? To ensure that your continuing education is a complete success, you should know the difference! In this article, we explain to you what the special features of these two learning formats are.
In continuing education, we frequently stumble across the terms: Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning. The differences are not always clear at first glance.
However, if you are aware of the differences between synchronous and asynchronous learning, you can structure your training and educational measures more effectively and achieve even better learning outcomes!
Synchronous or Asynchronous: Communication Decides in Learning
The biggest difference between the two learning formats lies in the way communication occurs between participants and trainers:
Synchronous Learning
For synchronous learning, it is important that trainers and participants come together at the same time. This can be either an in-person training in a real room or a video conference in a virtual (online) space.
Advantage: If questions arise, participants can ask their questions directly to the trainer.
Examples include:
In-person training sessions
Live webinars
Virtual classrooms
Asynchronous Learning
Characteristic of asynchronous learning is that communication and interaction can take place with a time delay. The participant can therefore learn independently of the trainer when the required teaching materials are available online or offline.
Advantage: Your participants can determine their own learning pace and repeat learning content as often as they wish.
Examples include:
Micro Learning
WBT (Web Based Training)
Both synchronous and asynchronous learning has advantages: Asynchronous learning formats are particularly preferred by users who feel pressured in in-person courses and need more time for reflection and elaboration of learning content. Synchronous learning, on the other hand, promotes active exchange and encourages discussion of the topics covered.
As you can see, there are different methods of continuing education for both learning formats. This does not mean, however, that you have to commit to one learning format for your educational measures.
Combine Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning!
With Blended Learning – the combination of in-person and E-learning – you can combine synchronous and asynchronous learning methods! It is particularly popular to complement in-person events with online courses. Participants learn asynchronously online (i.e., fully self-directed), while they can ask questions and perform exercises for practical transfer during the synchronous in-person part. Through repetition and application in two ways, the new knowledge is better anchored in memory – and the learning effect increases!
Would you like to learn more about how to combine synchronous and asynchronous learning units as Blended Learning? Then feel free to check out our free overview of the most popular Blended Learning models.
