Online learning has become a crucial part of education in recent years, especially with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Educators have had to adapt to this new mode of teaching, and the challenge has been to create an environment that is both engaging and effective in promoting learning. Synchronous teaching techniques have emerged as a promising solution to this challenge. In this article, we explore what synchronous teaching is, its benefits, and how educators can leverage its potential to enhance online learning.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is Synchronous Teaching?
Synchronous teaching is a mode of online teaching in which educators and students interact in real-time. This mode of teaching allows for immediate feedback, engagement, and interaction, which is not possible with asynchronous teaching. Synchronous teaching can take several forms, including video conferencing, webinars, chat rooms, and instant messaging.
Benefits of Synchronous Teaching
Synchronous teaching has several benefits that make it an ideal mode of online learning. First, it promotes engagement and interaction between educators and students, which is essential for effective learning. Studies have shown that synchronous teaching can improve student satisfaction, engagement, and academic performance (Rovai & Jordan, 2004).
Second, synchronous teaching allows for immediate feedback, which is critical for the learning process. In traditional classrooms, educators can provide feedback to students immediately after a lesson. Synchronous teaching allows for the same immediate feedback, ensuring that students can receive timely feedback and adjust their learning accordingly.
Third, synchronous teaching allows for the creation of a sense of community among learners, which can improve student motivation and retention. When learners feel connected to their peers and educators, they are more likely to persist with their learning and succeed in their academic pursuits (Kearsley, 2010).
Synchronous Teaching Techniques
To make the most of synchronous teaching, educators must use appropriate techniques that enhance engagement, interaction, and learning. Here are some effective synchronous teaching techniques that educators can use:
1. Polling
Polling is a technique that educators can use to assess student understanding and gather feedback. Polling allows educators to ask questions and receive immediate feedback from learners. Polling can be done using a variety of tools such as Google Forms, Kahoot, and Poll Everywhere.
2. Breakout Rooms
Breakout rooms are a powerful tool for promoting student interaction and collaboration. Educators can group students into small groups, and each group can have its own video conference room. This technique allows students to discuss, collaborate and complete tasks in small groups.
3. Live Chat
Live chat is a technique that allows for real-time communication between educators and learners. Educators can use live chat to provide immediate feedback, answer questions, and engage with learners. Live chat is an excellent technique for promoting engagement and interaction in online classrooms.
4. Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive whiteboards are a great tool for promoting student engagement and interaction. Educators can use interactive whiteboards to present content, ask questions, and receive feedback from learners. Interactive whiteboards can be used to make lessons more interactive and engaging.
5. Simulations and Games
Simulations and games are powerful tools for promoting student engagement and interaction. Educators can use simulations and games to make lessons more interactive and engaging. Simulations and games can be used to teach complex concepts, promote problem-solving skills, and foster collaboration among learners.
Conclusion
Synchronous teaching is a powerful mode of online teaching that can enhance student engagement, interaction, and learning. By using appropriate synchronous teaching techniques, educators can make online learning more effective, engaging, and enjoyable for learners. Synchronous teaching is likely to remain an essential part of education even beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, and educators must continue to explore new and innovative ways to leverage its potential to improve online learning outcomes.
It is important to note that synchronous teaching should not replace asynchronous teaching but should complement it. Asynchronous teaching provides flexibility and allows learners to learn at their own pace, while synchronous teaching offers immediate feedback and interaction, making it more effective for promoting learning. By combining both modes of teaching, educators can create a blended learning experience that promotes engagement, interaction, and flexibility.
In conclusion, synchronous teaching techniques offer a promising solution to breaking the barrier of online learning. Educators can leverage the benefits of synchronous teaching to create an engaging and effective learning environment for learners. By using appropriate techniques such as polling, breakout rooms, live chat, interactive whiteboards, and simulations, educators can make online learning more interactive, engaging, and enjoyable for learners. With the increasing popularity of online learning, it is crucial that educators continue to explore and implement new and innovative ways to enhance the online learning experience for learners.