Resources › For Students and Parents The Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Distance Learning Know Which Method of Distance Learning Is Best for You Share Flipboard Email Print Sam Edwards / Getty Images For Students and Parents Distance Learning Online College Online High School Online Public Schools Free Courses Homework Help Private School Test Prep College Admissions College Life Graduate School Business School Law School View More By Jamie Littlefield Jamie Littlefield Education Expert M.A., Education, Claremont Graduate University B.A., English, Brigham Young University Jamie Littlefield is a writer, instructional designer, and teacher of high school and college distance education courses. Her work has appeared in Huffington Post, Psychology Today, and more. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on January 13, 2018 In the world of online education, often known as distance learning, classes can be asynchronous or synchronous. What do those terms mean? Knowing the difference between synchronous and asynchronous distance learning can help you choose a program that works best for your schedule, your learning styles and your education. Synchronous Distance Learning Synchronous distance learning occurs when the teacher and pupils interact in different places but during the same time. Students enrolled in synchronous courses are generally required to log on to their computer during a set time at least once a week. Synchronous distance learning may include multimedia components such as group chats, web seminars, video conferencing and phone call-ins. Synchronous learning generally works best for students who can schedule set days and times for their studies. People who like structured courses heavy on student interaction often prefer synchronous learning. Asynchronous Distance Learning Asynchronous distance learning occurs when the teacher and the pupils interact in different places and during different times. Students enrolled in asynchronous courses are able to complete their work whenever they please. Asynchronous distance learning often relies on technology such as email, e-courses, online forums, audio recordings and video recordings. Snail mail is another medium for asynchronous learning. Students with complicated schedules often prefer asynchronous distance learning. It also tends to work well for self-motivated learners who do not need direct guidance to complete their assignments. Choosing the Right Type of Learning When trying to decide between synchronous and asynchronous courses, take your learning style and schedule into consideration. If you get lonely studying independently or feel more comfortable working closely with your professors, synchronous courses may be a better choice. If you are unable to commit to specific class times due to work or family obligations, asynchronous distance learning may be the way to go. Look into more on the pros and cons of the different types of learning. Teaching in the Multiple Environments Whether the distance learning environment is synchronous or asynchronous, the teacher's goal continues to be putting forth a strong presence, even in an online course. A teacher who relies on synchronous, asynchronous or a combination of communication approaches must still communicate clearly, frequently and effectively for students to derive the most from the educational experience. Cite this Article Format mla apa chicago Your Citation Littlefield, Jamie. "The Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Distance Learning." ThoughtCo, Aug. 27, 2020, thoughtco.com/synchronous-distance-learning-asynchronous-distance-learning-1097959. Littlefield, Jamie. (2020, August 27). The Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Distance Learning. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/synchronous-distance-learning-asynchronous-distance-learning-1097959 Littlefield, Jamie. "The Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Distance Learning." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/synchronous-distance-learning-asynchronous-distance-learning-1097959 (accessed March 27, 2023). copy citation Watch Now: Distance Learning Programs and Homeschooling