We work in a fast-paced world where time is at a premium. The ability to communicate effectively, quickly and conveniently in these conditions is important.
The internet offers so many different ways to communicate. My preference is asynchronous communication that allows me to access and respond to information at a convenient time. Most of what I do in my job and in my education classes is done through email, discussion boards, forums, activity exchanges, podcasts and even Facebook. The beauty of these forms of communication is that they can deliver messages quickly but I do not have to rearrange my schedule in order to receive the message. I can access what I need when I need it. Asynchronous communication also allows me time to contemplate or react to the communication before I respond. It is also beneficial for me, as an international student, to have communication that is not dependant on time zones.
Synchronous communication, such as chat rooms, skype calls, conference calls, or online technicians allow communication to happen immediately. This works well when only dealing with a few people, but whenever there are many people that are trying to coordinate a time to meet in an online environment, it can be very difficult. It is amazing the type of technology that is available. I have been in schools that have interacted with other classrooms in real time through web cams. I have also seen technology where companies can have meetings online that look as though the person you are talking to is sitting across the table from you. This technology allows people to meet instantly while removing the barriers of time and distance. Synchronous communication is also outstanding when you desire an immediate answer or immediate assistance. When my HP laptop was having trouble it was wonderful to speak to a computer technician and have her control my computer remotely from her location halfway around the world.
After writing this blog, it is amazing to think of all the different types of communication I use everyday for my personal life, for my job and for my education, that are made possible by technology.
I too desire asynchronous communication in the educational context. This is how I would prefer to take my courses. However, as you stated synchronous communication is very important and useful whenever there is an immediate need for assistance or information. I find myself using synchronous communication more so in my personal life. Now I would prefer to use the chat features of many places versus calling the 1-800 numbers that companies provide because responses are quicker. It is important to note the positives of both forms of communication and how they may be more useful to some people in differing contexts.
ReplyDeleteKim B.
I also use asynchronous online communication more frequently. It is my choice of communication because of the things that you mentioned: convenience and accessibility. I also believe that these forms of communication make it easier for those who are in the classroom because you can communicate with other teachers about various instructional methods as well as new teaching strategies or technology that you would like to utilize in the classroom. I know that I have found discussion boards, blogs, etc… helpful with these specific educational issues. I would imagine that as an international teacher that time differences could also be quite a challenge in trying to schedule meetings. I know that just for me, finding time to meet in a real time situation outside of work and family is rather difficult, but asynchronous communication allows me to find time when I have it whether it is at midnight or 5 AM.
ReplyDeleteI also like the convenience that is being offered in the online school. We are able to check our email, blogs, and discussion boards when we are ready/able to.
ReplyDeleteRegarding synchronous learning, I agree that it works better with few(er) people, but this advancement in technology is a great resource. Time will tell what will become of it.
Thanks,
-Chris
I agree that in the classroom, synchronous is not always convenient. timing and schedules seem to always conflict. But with asynchronous there is flexibility for response. I do like the means of blogs and discussion boards for that purpose in the classroom.
ReplyDelete