Synchronous & Asynchronous Teaching

As we continue to deliver instruction remotely, more faculty are facing decisions about how to deliver their courses and which elements of their courses are best suited to synchronous versus asynchronous delivery. This page provides a basic overview of these choices with links to strategies, tools, and resources to support your instructional needs.

Check out this Smeal Academy Session about Remote Instruction Strategies  for more details regarding strategies and tools for synchronous and asynchronous remote instruction.

Synchronous Teaching

Synchronous teaching uses tools and strategies for real-time, “synchronous” interaction between students and instructors. This method usually keeps a more traditional face-to-face schedule for class instruction.

Asynchronous Teaching

Asynchronous teaching uses instructional strategies designed for self-directed student learning that can occur when most convenient for the student. Assignments and activities are completed according to the course schedule.

Zoom

Whether you record lectures, hold live class sessions, virtual office hours or instructional team meetings (among other things), Zoom video conferencing can support synchronous and asynchronous remote teaching.