Asynchronous learning provides students with opportunities to engage ideas, develop skills, and interact with each other outside of a physical classroom or required synchronous meeting. Just as they do in in-person courses, students in asynchronous learning environments can learn and interact in any number of ways, including through discussion, collaboration, project work, experiential learning, and more.
What is asynchronous learning?
An asynchronous learning environment is one in which students and instructors engage each other and course materials at different times.
Asynchronous learning is not necessarily “self-paced” where learners aren’t governed by deadlines and work on the course at their own pace. Credit-bearing courses at UW are not self-paced. Students in asynchronous courses should expect to meet regular deadlines and engage with peers just as they would in hybrid or in-person courses.
What do we know about asynchronous learning?
Online education has been active research field since the late 20th century and has produced a wealth of evidence about student performance in asynchronous learning environments. Here’s what the research indicates:
- Asynchronous courses can be as effective as in-person or hybrid courses. As with any mode of instruction, though, student success in asynchronous courses depends on effective course design, active learning opportunities, and an active and engaged instructor.
- Meaningful connection is possible in asynchronous courses. Many of our students (and many of us!) routinely use digital spaces to connect and work toward shared goals. Thoughtfully structured activities can help students in asynchronous courses build connections with their instructors and classmates and develop professional skills.
- Instructors are the most crucial variable in online learner success. Asynchronous courses do not run themselves. Just as they do in in-person and hybrid courses, instructors play a vital role in helping students learn and grow by actively engaging students through discussion, videos, office hours, and announcements; designing assignments that align with clear learning outcomes; and providing students with timely feedback.
- Well-designed asynchronous courses can empower students. For some students, asynchronous courses reduce stressors that may exist for them in synchronous or in-person settings. Asynchronous learning can offer greater accessibility and flexibility. This can be particular helpful to students with work or family responsibilities or for students who need more time to process information.
Where can I learn more about teaching asynchronously?
If you are preparing to teach an asynchronous course, consider using the Hybrid/Online Course Development and Evaluation Rubric to guide your course planning and design. The rubric reflects practices that have been shown to increase learner engagement and success in online learning environments, including fully asynchronous ones.
Teaching@UW also offers Teaching Online 101, an asynchronous course that provides instructors with an opportunity to learn about online teaching and course design while experiencing what it is like to learn asynchronously. Learn more about Teaching Online 101.