Online - Asynchronous

Here are some features of an online asynchronous course. In short, an asynchronous online college course offers a lot of flexibility. It's a different style of learning, but with the right approach, you can thrive and succeed! 

 Flexible Schedule

In the context of online learning, an asynchronous class is one where you typically don't have to be online at the exact same time as everyone else. One of the biggest perks of an asynchronous course is that it doesn't have a set schedule. You don't have to log in at a specific time for a live class. This is great for students who might be balancing school with work, family responsibilities, or different time zones. You can learn at your own pace, when it's most convenient for you. 

 Learning Materials

Course materials typically include recorded lectures, PowerPoint presentations, readings, and multimedia resources like videos or interactive activities. You can review these resources as many times as you need to fully understand the subject. 

 Assignments & Due Dates

Even though you can learn at your own pace, there will still be due dates. You will have assignments, quizzes, projects, and/or exams that need to be completed by certain dates. It will be important to keep track of these and manage your time effectively. 

 Discussion Boards

Most asynchronous courses have online forums where students can ask questions, discuss topics with classmates, or interact with the professor. These forums can be very helpful for understanding different perspectives and getting help when you're stuck. 

 Instructor Interaction

While you won't have mandatory live lectures, your instructors are there to help. They can answer questions through Canvas’s inbox, email, discussion boards, or virtual office hours. Some instructors may require individual conferences using Zoom, flexibly scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need clarification or additional support. 

 Time Management and Organization

Since you'll be managing your learning schedule, staying organized is key. Our success coaches have developed 5 Tips for Online Success Links to an external site. that you may find helpful.  You will want to set aside time for studying, completing assignments, and preparing for exams. This can be challenging but also a great opportunity to develop strong time management skills. 

 Technology Requirements

You'll need a reliable internet connection and access to a device like a laptop or desktop computer. Also, it's important to become familiar with the online learning platform used by your college (Canvas) Links to an external site., as well as any other required software or tech tools for your specific course.