What are the pros and cons of online synchronous learning?

There are quite a number of advantages to attending class in a synchronous learning setting.  While some of the benefits may seem self evident, others are less obvious.  For example, many intuitively understand that synchronous learning systems, whether they are online or in a physical classroom, enable live interaction with one’s instructor and peers.  Other obvious benefits of synchronous instruction include the ability to receive immediate feedback and to make changes in instructional strategies in response to observed needs of the student.  Live engagement affords more change and responsiveness in the classroom.

While these advantages are significant, other benefits of synchronous online learning serve to factor greatly in the overall success of the learning experience.  Dr. Shauna Schuller (2006), the Assistant Director of the Instructional Technology Center at University of South Florida suggests four compelling reasons for synchronous learning systems.  She notes increases in student motivation, increased development of group cohesion and the development of supportive learning communities are benefits derived from online synchronous learning. Additionally, synchronous learning enables more efficient team collaboration and the development of consensus-based team decisions. Finally, the synchronous environment is fleeting.  This transitory nature of synchronous learning situations forces the student to prioritize and focus on completing the work at hand (2006).

With this in mind, it simply must be said that the online synchronous learning environment offers tremendous benefit to adult learners pursuing higher education.

To recap,  advantages of online synchronous learning include: easier and better team collaboration, increased learning and productivity, social interaction, the development of learning communities, immediate feedback, more interaction within the class, increased learner motivation, and enhanced instructional responsiveness.  
 

That being said, the online synchronous learning environment does not come without constraints. 

To provide a complete picture of the benefits afforded learners through synchronous instructional systems, one must mention and address the disadvantages and difficulties often incurred in the process. For starters, online synchronous learning can be achieved only through technology.  Many students and instructors alike are not familiar with the various technologies that enable synchronous communication; hence many experience fear, apprehension, and frustration at the thought of engaging in synchronous activities.  For successful implementation, this gap in learning must be addressed and all participants must become familiar with both the technology and its usage prior to engaging in synchronous learning activities.

Additionally, hardware restrictions and software applications must be checked, understood and operation practiced before scheduled activities can be successfully performed. Test runs are often necessary to ensure program viability as Internet servers, bandwidth, and computer operating systems impact the overall performance of the technology.  While success is always hoped for, conflicts inevitably will be encountered, impacting functionality of the system.

Furthermore, online synchronous systems require careful planning and scheduling to ensure participation.  For the non-traditional distance learner, this can be more than difficult; it can mean missing out on a learning opportunity afforded others. Additionally, should the medium work perfectly, successful communication often results in the formation of personal and professional friendships. While we consider this a benefit, if not kept in check, limited time frames can be constrained and social loafing can occur.

 Finally, while some synchronous learning activities provide face-to-face communication, others do not.  Many will still require the use of text to communicate ideas, opinions, and feelings.  While many programs have built in interactive components that enable them to express emotions, clap, or raise hands (2006), it still relies upon the reader to interpret the signs correctly.  Lack of education on proper virtual etiquette (vetiquette) can result in a hostile learning environment that retards or impedes learning. 

While the disadvantages, if left unaddressed can effectively derail the learning process, carefully planned instruction addresses and overcomes these elements.  Technology can be learned; programs and applications can be checked. And learning challenges can be prepared for.  Synchronous learning benefits are such that instructors should carefully assess the pros and cons, and implement the right technology to promote successful synchronous learning opportunities for their classes.

References: 

Schullo, S. (2006).  A tale of two systems Elluminate Live vs. Macromedia Breeze.  22^nd Annual Conference on Distance Teaching and Learning. Retrieved from http://www.uwex.edu/disted/conference/Resource_library/proceedings/06_4385.pdf