Overview

Integration of synchronous communication into asynchronous courses enhances students’ engagement, increases instructors’ social and teaching presence, and promotes feedback quality. All these advancements improve student learning and success. Additionally, synchronous communication allows students' practice real-time presentations and team collaboration that are essential skills for their professional success. However, integrating online asynchronous learning experiences into synchronous learning experiences can be challenging. Decisions such as how and when to use synchronous tools and strategies are difficult to make for many faculty members. The purpose of this workshop is to help the participants learn about available synchronous communication tools and develop skills for preparing synchronous learning experiences to increase students’ engagement and learning.

Learning Objectives​

• Explore available tools for synchronous communication
• Discuss strategies to enhance student engagement and learning by using synchronous communication
• Develop a plan for integrating synchronous communication into the asynchronous courses   ​

Format

this is a synchronous/asynchronous workshop which can be offered once a month. The workshop will require approximately 4 hours of work, including reading research-based articles, viewing presentations, engaging in an online synchronous learning experiences, and submitting assignments.

Who should attend?

Faculty members who teach asynchronous online courses, Staff who govern faculty members, Instructional designers, and Lead Faculty Area Chairs.

Delivery Mode

Blended-Synchronous / Asynchronous Workshop

Levels

Beginner, Intermediate

Eligible for Scholarship Engagement Credit?

Yes