Course Formats
Two types of e-learning are asynchronous and synchronous.
Synchronous
Synchronicity means doing something at the same time, and with learning, it’s no different. Synchronous learning refers to a learning event in which a group of participants is engaged in learning at the same time. For that, they should be in the same physical location as a classroom or the same online environment, such as in a web conference, where they can interact with the instructor and other students. There is real-interaction with other people. Using web conferencing tools allows for scheduled sessions where all participants arrive at the appointed time. Communication is immediate, and students often feel less isolated with the ability to interact with both the teacher and other enrolled students. Synchronous learning fosters more social support and increases motivation among learners because there is a limited amount of time to complete the lesson.
- Benefits of Synchronous e-Learning
- exchange of knowledge and experience between participants
- Interaction between participants (student-teacher or student-student
- Real-time feedback
- Teaching happens on a fixed schedule, thereby increasing completion rates, student motivation and student success
- Greater preparedness for post-secondary
Asynchronous
Asynchronous type classes are the opposite of synchronous courses. The students and teachers do not assemble at any specific time but instead communicate through other mediums, such as email and discussion boards to support the learners when participants cannot be online at the same time. These types of lessons are helpful because of their convenience and flexibility in that a learner can participate in the class even if when they have other commitments. These are more self-paced in nature since immediate responses aren’t necessary for communications. Asynchronous e-learning makes it possible for learners to log on to the learning environment at any time and download documents or send messages to teachers or peers.
- Benefits of Asynchronous e-Learning
- Participants can learn in their own time and schedule
- Tasks can be automated to reduce repetitive work such as auto-graded quizzes, pre-recorded content lectures, etc.
- Students spend less time sitting at the computer
- Much more scheduling flexibility
- Students can work anytime, anywhere (assumes computer and internet access at home)
- Greater preparedness for post-secondary
Hybrid Classes at Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate
This year, our recommended method of learning is through a hybrid instructional model, taking the best attributes of both synchronous and asynchronous learning into consideration. Content will be chunked and posted weekly on course landing pages, complete with pre-recorded mini-lesson videos. Also, scheduled interactive sessions will take place twice a week for 30-minute sessions, and students/schools can plan a small group or individual tutoring as required with our instructors.
The hybrid instructional model includes access to all of the course content with easy to follow instructions, as well as regular supportive check-in sessions to ensure students are understanding and progressing at pace.
Our outstanding quality of teaching, current technology practices and dedication to learning will allow for each student to get the best education possible. As a student in WVC, there are two environments:
Learning Management System (LMS)
The LMS is our online learning environment, analogous to a school building. It houses various classrooms and courses. The learning environment has many student tools to help in communication and tracking such as email, grade book, drop boxes (for handing in assignments), lesson quizzes, message board and electronic storage (locker).
Web Conferencing Application(s)
Once logged in to the online learning environment, students connect in real-time by launching one of WVC’s web conferencing applications. Most teachers use the Adobe Connect platform to meet with the class participants. The application has many features that make it safe and suitable for online learning and interaction.
