Table of contents
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 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 has a set of distinctive characteristics that make it unique — and effective within specific business contexts:
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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