In an online setting it seems to me a combination of Asynchronous and Synchronous learning will be more effective. synchronous learning will be a very strong tool to use in engaging the student, and supported with asynchronous teaching design with the student further engaged by being held accountable for assignments being done either prior or post real time instruction. In all the success of the student and the teaching design, is directly dependent on organization, and communication. Organization will fortify the teaching pattern and benefit from results of a successful student completion of the specific assignment and or course.
