Asynchronous & Synchronous Technologies

The readings on asynchronous and synchronous technologies are very straightforward and easy to understand. It refreshes my memory on some of the things I learned about asynchronous and synchronous learning from a grad class on Information Literacy. I remember completing an assignment using a discussion forum to demonstrate a synchronous learning environment. As I recall we used the Blackboard discussion forum, where one person acted as the instructor in a remote location while the rest of the class worked through a subject-based tutorial. We all login at the same time. It was very interesting and confusing at times because it was about 12 people in the class but all chatting at the same time. We each took turns presenting our tutorials and acting as the instructor and student. Some of the comments I got from acting as the instructor, were to pay attention more attention to everyone's responses and respond to then even if I didn't have anything to say. I can remember getting lost in the string of response entries. It was a little fustrating at times.

In taking 4 classes through WebTycho I am not as comfortable with asynchronous distance education. I do not feel "in touch" with the class. I have little motivation to venture on the conferences because sometimes I really don't have much to comment or say about anything. Other times I feel overwhelmed with having to login throughout the week to check the conferences. I don't like lingering on the computer after work and I don't have time at work to work on assignments so I have a hard time keeping up with the conferences. But I think this will be the last time I will take an online class. I need face-to-face contact. It works better for me in learning and time management.