Synchronous training

Table of contents

What is synchronous training?

Synchronous training is a form of training in which students share the same learning environment (whether physical or digital), participating and interacting with their instructors and classmates in real time. In e-learning, students take part in live training through tools such as webinars or chats which allow them to communicate instantly, creating a collaborative and dynamic learning environment.

The differences between synchronous and asynchronous training

The field of online training can be subdivided into two learning categories: synchronous and asynchronous training. Below, we take a look at the key differences between them:

Synchronous training

  • Real-time participation: Students and instructors are present at the same time during learning.
  • Instant communication: This approach allows users to ask questions and receive answers on the spot.
  • Synchronized learning rhythm: This training style encourages a group learning rhythm, in which all students review material and acquire knowledge at the same time.

Asynchronous training

  • Flexible schedules: Unlike with synchronous training, students and instructors do not need to be present simultaneously during learning sessions. Instead, students can access content whenever and wherever is convenient for them.
  • Staggered interactions: Communication is not instantaneous as in synchronous learning. However, students do have access to a range of communication and collaboration tools which allow them to comment, join forums and share information at any time.
  • Learning pace: In asynchronous learning, students access the content when most appropriate and convenient for them, allowing them to keep to their own learning pace and balance their studies with other needs and commitments.

Key features of synchronous training

Synchronous training has a set of distinctive characteristics that make it unique — and effective within specific business contexts:

  • Interactive: A high level of interaction between students and instructors.
  • Immediate: Responses and feedback delivered in real time.
  • Collaborative: Facilitates teamwork and group problem-solving.
  • Structured: Scheduled sessions that require punctuality and commitment.

Advantages and disadvantages of synchronous training

Like all learning methodologies, synchronous training brings its own mix of pros and cons. It’s important to be aware of these, as it allows you to make an informed decision about implementing the approach in your company:

Advantages

  • Greater immersion: Students feel more connected and committed to their learning.
  • Immediate support: Instant answers and clarifications give students a feeling of community.
  • Motivation: Increases motivation and sense of belonging, since students benefit from the presence of their peers.

Disadvantages

  • Lack of flexibility: This learning approach requires that all participants be available at the same time.
  • Faster pace: Students have less time to reflect and process new information, which could potentially affect students with different learning needs.

Strategies and methods for synchronous training

Now that you know what synchronous training is, and have a grasp of its advantages, it’s time to implement it in your training programs. To help you with this, we’ve prepared a list of best practices:

1. Planning and structure

Designing well-structured learning sessions with clear objectives is essential from the outset. Each session must have a specific, defined purpose, and be supported by a structured plan that includes: learning objectives; a schedule of activities and key topics to be covered; and finally all the materials (presentations, videos, exercises, etc.) required to carry out the training.

2. Active interaction

Encouraging participant interaction is key to maintaining student interest and engagement. To help with this, you can get students involved in activities such as debates, or ask focussed questions throughout their training.

3. Immediate feedback

Providing consistent feedback during and after training sessions is crucial for quality learning. Spoken comments, quick assessments (quizzes and surveys), as well as written feedback all help to strengthen the learning process.

4. Support materials

Another good practice is to provide additional resources to students — such as videos, readings, infographics, graphs, and exercises — that allow them to visualize their learning, as well as put it into practice. We’ll take a closer look at the tools and resources available to you in greater detail below.

Tools and resources for synchronous training

Technology is a powerful ally when it comes to synchronous training. Here, we outline some of the most useful technological tools and resources you can find:

Video conferences or webinars

Video conferencing tools are essential for accommodating real-time communication, allowing you to create breakout rooms, share screens during live presentations, and even record sessions for later review.

Communication tools

Instant messaging platforms such as chat channels or forums also play a crucial role in synchronous learning. They make it possible to enjoy fast and effective communication through group discussions, instant messages and file sharing. These resources are particularly useful for maintaining a constant flow of interaction, and for answering questions quickly.

E-learning platforms

Learning management systems (LMS) integrate several training tools into one platform, and are essential for managing courses, designing and distributing assessments, and monitoring student progress. These systems allow you to organize training content efficiently, and help to create a structured and flexible environment for all learning participants.

Are you ready to start a synchronous training program, but don’t know where to start? With isEazy LMS, you can enjoy the best of a learning experience platform (LXP), coupled with the powerful features of a learning management system (LMS) — all brought together in a new generation of learning platforms.

Organize attractive and dynamic training content intuitively, engage your employees through collaborative spaces such as forums, virtual classrooms and chat, and make it easy for them to get the information they need through our advanced search — with added recommendation system. Everything you need in just one place. Request a demo today!

Elizabeth Aguiar Chacón
CONTENT CREATED BY:
Elizabeth Aguiar Chacón
Content Marketing Specialist at isEazy

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