Computers Internet Computer Technology Term Paper

Synchronous and Asynchronous

Distance education is becoming an increasingly important part of today's dynamic and globalized business and academic environments. This paper gives a brief introduction to distance education and asynchronous and synchronous technologies, and reviews and compares two synchronous technologies (HorizonLive and Centra 7) with two asynchronous technologies (Blackboard and WebCT).

Synchronous and asynchronous technologies are both part of the recent explosion of computer mediated learning. As Kirwin notes, computers have created a "vision of classrooms transformed into global learning communities," where students or business cohorts from around the world can use technology to revolutionize the learning experience.

Technologies in computer-mediated distance learning fall into two main categories, synchronous and asynchronous. Synchronous communication is done in "real time," and includes chat applications like MSN Messenger, and streaming audio and video. Asynchronous communication does not occur in "real time," and can include e-mail, message boards, traditional correspondence courses, and databases. Overall, asynchronous learning has the advantage of allowing learners to review material at their leisure and in depth, thus formulating critical responses and "attend to the learning with a level of comfort and confidence" (Kirwin). Synchronous learning has the advantage of allowing for brainstorming and collaborative work, and allows for more constructivist learning, where students construct knowledge and meaning for themselves.

There are limitations to any type of distance-education technology, whether synchronous or asynchronous. While current technology is profoundly useful in bringing together people across distance and time, Kirwin notes that it "fails to provide the most important component of learning: social interactions." Nonetheless, computer mediated learning and distance education remain powerful tools.

HorizonLive and Centra 7 are two well-known types of two synchronous technologies.HorizonLive allows for streaming audio and video, an interactive whiteboard, chat and instant messaging, and application sharing. Technologically, HorizonLive is an accessible technology, requiring low bandwidth access, and a minimum of software, including a web browser, and either the optional RealPlayer8 or QuickTime 5. Operating on Windows, Mac, or UNIX platforms, HorizonLive also has minimal hardware requirements, including 32 MB RAM, and an optional sound card with microphone (presenter) or speakers (participant) (HorizonLive).

HorizonLive Product Demonstration by Matt Wasowski showcases many of the advantages of the system. HorizonLive allows for instant collaboration between the instructor and participant, thus making it useful for virtual meetings. As such, the instructor acts as a real-time facilitator of learning. The demonstration notes that customer services is available realtime as well, and HorizonLive integrates with both Blackboard and WebCT, two commonly used asynchronous technologies (HorizonLive). The demo that I watched worked seamlessly on my high speed Internet connection, with minimal wait time.

Centra 7 is a synchronous technology that allows for real-time collaboration, learning and communication over the Internet. It is marketed primarily for business use, and is designed for use with "application rollouts, sales, training, demand generation programs and more" (Centra 7). Centra 7's technology allows for Web seminars, live virtual classes, online meetings, creation of content for interactive seminars, and systems for administration, registration and management of events (Centra 7).

Technical requirements for Centra 7 are relatively low, and include a Windows-based operating system, and a web browser (Internet Explorer or Netscape). A sound card, speakers, and microphone are required, as is an Internet connection of 28.8 or higher.….....