Types of online learning

There are different models of learning that are particularly useful in an online environment. Each type is defined and linked to articles and resources.

Live or Synchronous eLearning: means that communication occurs at the same time between individuals and information is accessed instantly. Examples of synchronous e-learning include real-time chat, and video/audio conferencing or the virtual classroom. Synchronous e-Learning can provide instant feedback on a student's performance and allows the training to be adjusted immediately if needed. It also provides a way to accelerate the building of learning communities or social presence. It aids learner engagement and provides an environment where synergism can be expressed and learner can empower learner to construct knowledge. The disadvantages of synchronous e-learning are that the training is not self-paced and the logistics of scheduling, time zones, and student availability need to be managed.

Asynchronous or Store and Forward e-learning: happens when communication between people does not occur simultaneously. Some examples of asynchronous e-learning include taking a self-paced course, exchanging e-mail messages with a mentor, and posting messages to a discussion group.

• The advantages of asynchronous learning are convenience, accessibility, and the fact that it is self-paced.
• The disadvantages of asynchronous learning are that the student may feel isolated or be less motivated without any real-time human interaction. In addition, asynchronous e-learning does not provide immediate feedback on a student's performance, leaving adjustments to training until after an evaluation is completed.

Blended Learning often called mixed mode learning, is a combination of traditional face-to-face lectures, tutorials and workshops with online activities such as email, announcements, discussion boards and quizzes. Learners can receive timely feedback from online tests and quizzes to identify gaps in their knowledge and understanding. Also because of how students use the Internet in their lives there are other learning community benefits for using online learning in a face-to-face environment. All programs and courses of study at the University of Adelaide have the potential to be offered as blended learning. Every course has an online counterpart - MyUni, the University supported learning management system (lms). For further details, go to blended learning models .

For further details about Learning Models and Learning Styles go to Learning Models.