Synchronous Instruction refers to the instructions given by instructors to their students in the same place where learning takes place. Such instructions can be provided in in-person classes, online meetings, or get together of smaller groups.
Synchronous instruction is offered in real-time. The foremost advantage of synchronous instruction is instructional depth. As the instructions are provided right then and there, instructors issue individual guidance and mentorship to each student without scheduling appointments.
In addition to that, synchronous teaching allows for a more dynamic exploration of ideas, topics, and issues. There is more speed and immediacy to synchronous teaching. Various critics feel synchronous teaching has multiple limitations.
Some of them include the collapsing of video conferencing and lack of inclusivity. Many also believe that synchronous teaching is brittle and mostly depends on technology working properly.
Moreover, instructors and students may have constraints in their learning environments for the instructions to take place. In synchronous instruction, it can get tedious to level the playing field. Many teachers provide recording and other alternatives to their students when facing logistical or technical issues.
Although synchronous teaching can be fatiguing for both students and instructors, it helps create both connection and community by allowing immediate feedback and spontaneous conversations.
Moreover, as they provide opportunities to students through the experience of visually seeing and interacting with their peers, synchronous instruction is beneficial if handled with care.
