Types of Online Learning

Online learning can be either synchronous or asynchronous. Synchronous literally means ‘at the same time’, while asynchronous means ‘not at the same time’.

Synchronous distance learning involves live communication either through sitting in an on-line classroom, or chatting online. Asynchronous distance learning sometimes has a set of weekly deadlines, but otherwise allows students to work at their own pace. Synchronous learning is less flexible and disrupts the student’s life to a greater extent. It is, however, the most popular format used by university distance learning departments, as it facilitates a greater amount of interaction between students and professors especially if working towards a degree or masters course.

Those courses that weigh more heavily on projects and assignments thrive in an asynchronous format because they provide the students with more time to focus on their work. With open schedule online courses, students are allotted the greatest amount of freedom. This is an asynchronous form of learning in which students are provided internet-based textbooks, mailing lists, email addresses, to complete their coursework.

Blended distance learning courses combine synchronous and asynchronous learning which creates a structure in which the student is often required to meet at a specific time in a classroom or Internet chat room along with working online independently.

Some online learning colleges provide students with round the clock access to eLearning for the duration of the course. The student is usually given access to numerous online resources along with being assigned a personal tutor. Assessments are usually uploaded online and feedback follows promptly. There is no need to feel isolated in your distance learning studies as there are many supports available to you from the provider. With easy access to tutors, questions or queries can be submitted and answered very easily with the online system. There are often also open forums where other peoples’ questions and answers can be viewed and therefore can be used as a reference for others. Many offer a record of your progress throughout you studies or track your progress for you, which you can see every time you log on.

Aside from private distance learning providers, some higher education institutes offer distance learning via their adult & continuing education departments or have their own online learning departments. These courses often require you to meet with your tutor and other students occasionally for workshops and tutorials. In most cases, you receive a set of self-paced, self-instructional learning materials. Learning materials are broken into modules, which you study on your own. These courses can lead to various awards including: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business and Masters Awards. They also offer additional supports including: the opportunity to study in groups, return to-study skills modules along with a day-to-day advisory and support service.

Regardless of the types of distance learning courses; what they all have in common is a proven track record of success for learners along with excellent employment prospects.