What a simple, clearly understood explanation and examples for Synchronous vs. Asynchronous.
Synchronous should not be used to teach critical content. Nor should it be used to evaluate a student's knowledge of the course content.
Synchronous (example Chat room) is for small groups up to 5 or 6. Keep session at a maximum of 30 minutes. Great when one-on-one with a student. Must consider time zones and give students what information is needed in advance so they can prepare. Whereas with Asynchronous (exaple a discusssion post/board) instructor has to facilatate in such a way as to monitor discussion, structure interaction, provide rules of netiquette, keep to the point, keep group focused, do not allow for rambling..just some of the main points on asynchronous.
Also the ways students approach their learning. This is information every teacher needs to know from the start. I have seen these appraoches from day one of becoming a teacher. Had I known what I know now, I would not have taken how the students were behaving so personally.
