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Hear what current online students have to say.

Pamela Gustafson

U. of Northern Iowa, U. of Wisconsin Whitewater

Jen Zeman

University of Maryland University College

Asychronous Communication

Posted by Phyllis Stith on July 27th, 2008

The asynchronous learning environment is static in nature and such, instant communication does not occur because information is posted on message boards. Most of the communication that occurs in this type of format is done through threaded discussions which consist of general questions or topics that have been posted by the professor. In turn, students are expected to respond in writing for all class members to see. In addition, students may pose questions and concerns in the online learning environment although email is the preferred method for issues that may require one on one interaction. It is also important to note that professors may also post audio and video files that students can view during weekly assignments.

The students are also able to upload files for storage in the online learning environment which may include research papers and projects. In turn, the professor grades these assignments and discussions and posts the corresponding grades in a grade book that is located on the online course web page.

Thus, it is imperative that both professor and student use critical thinking skills that will serve to ensure that all discussions have a logical structure. Moreover, effective writing skills must also be utilized because all posts are highly visible. Most importantly, effective writing skills are required in all institutions of higher learning and proofreading and editing skills are imperative.

Tags: Add new tag, Online Communication