Asynchronous & Synchronous Teaching and Learning 

(Adapted from Digital Promise)

Synchronous Teaching and Learning

Synchronous learning instruction in this context refers to digital learning that takes place live and in real time; educator uses video and audio to relay lessons and concepts, host live class discussions, and conduct small group work. This could include a lesson led by the educator or learner, a virtual game, learner presentations, small group work, or peer-to-peer collaboration.

To extend this into asynchronous learning, educators may record synchronous learning sessions and post them so they may be accessed later by learners and families at a time more conducive to learning. Recordings must adhere to learner privacy rules as laid out by your district or network of schools.

Synchronous learning includes:

• Agreements and plans for digital classroom management.
• Agreements between learners, families, and educators about the shared learning space. They include policies, procedures, and agreements as if it were a physical classroom space.
• Communication with students and families on security and safety protocols.
• Consistent access to the learning platform and materials link unless there is a need to change these for safety concerns.

Synchronous learning is also a time to connect with students, develop social and emotional learning, and create a sense of belonging for students.

Asynchronous Teaching and Learning

Asynchronous learning instruction in this context refers to digital learning that students and their families can conduct on their own, at a time they choose, at a pace they choose, with a confirmed completion date.  Ideally, these are projects and tasks that do not require an educator to provide synchronous live instruction. Learners and families access their learning and complete tasks without any, or with minimal, intervention from an educator.

• Learners will continue learning beyond the “live classroom” experience.
• Educators should use their virtual desk to share out content (e.g. access to presentation, instructional videos, host small group instruction, availability for student help, etc.)
• Clear directions. Materials organized in an accessible way. Consistent methods based on the needs of learners, families and educators.
• Rubrics for assignments. Google Classroom where assignments are submitted and where students receive specific feedback on their submitted work. Informal conversation space, like a discussion board for learners to discuss with each other or post open-ended questions for the group.