One advantage to cyber education is the learning styles they can provide. Here at PA Virtual we offer live classes with students and teachers (also known as sync learning) and classes where students work at their own pace with guidance from a teacher (also known as async). This blog post will focus on asynchronous learning. Asynchronous learning is a student-centered teaching style that gives students freedom and flexibility in their educational experience.  The concept of asynchronous learning in the virtual setting mirrors the concept of independent study in the brick-and-mortar setting.  In a virtual setting, this type of course lends itself to a self-motivated student willing to exceed expectations without the constant restraints of the set schedule of a synchronous class. This learning style lends itself to advanced learners, and here at PA Virtual, we are fully equipped and ready to help facilitate asynchronous learning. Asynchronous learning is advantageous for students with a diverse lifestyle or a nontraditional schedule that may be overloaded with commitments outside of school hours.

 

Asynchronous learning can provide flexibility, a self-paced schedule, increase learning accessibility, and build workplace skills. In this design, instructors build the framework (building the curriculum plan, lessons, and expectations), creating a launching pad for students to spring into their own learning journey.  They choose how and when to access the content and materials that have been designed to match this flexibility. In this blog, we will explore a variety of effective strategies that can bolster the learning potential for asynchronous students to excel as advanced learners.

 

Students learning in an asynchronous setting have the opportunity to self-direct their learning and really take ownership of their educational experience.  In an asynchronous setting, often students are more willing to take on challenges that encourage students to explore their interests independently. This learning characteristic caters to the student that desires a more challenging workload.  One way educators can create this opportunity for student growth is through providing choice and variety in assignments that cater to diverse learning preferences.

 

Accelerated pacing is one option to foster self-directed learning, as a student’s drive and motivation fuel this learning process. Based on student learning levels, the accelerated schedule could push achievement further by providing a strategically tailored learning plan. In order for students to be successful in an asynchronous learning environment, they must have a workable plan from the start.

 

One way a student can organize their studies is through a customized learning path that is crafted specifically to pair with their goals in the course. Personalized learning paths are an important aspect of the advanced learners program, that includes advanced topics and accelerated schedules. Every asynchronous student comes to their course with a unique set of needs whether it is in regard to class pace, workload levels, motivation levels, and possible outside commitments that may require schedule modifications. The personalized plan is ideal and allows the teacher to not only guide the student in a productive program but provide meaningful feedback. This feedback also gives the instructor a guide for plan modifications that are needed in order to support student success. 

 

At PA Virtual, students can work at a pace that meets their specific needs, and find that the customized learning plans are tailored to foster student achievement and success. Various learning tools and enhancements typically engage the asynchronous student and activate self-motivated studies that still meet a deadline and course expectations. Asynchronous courses may incorporate a variety of multimedia content such as videos, podcasts, interactive lessons (as found in Nearpod), or game apps (Blooket or Kahoot!), which creates a hands-on experience in a virtual setting. Other learning platforms allow students to search and create their own studies using websites such as: Newsela, News for Kids, Britannica School, and EBSCOhost are just a few of the academic websites available for research. Using a medley of learning tools is essential in an asynchronous environment, keeping student interest activated and creating a well-rounded experience for the advanced student.

 

Another tool that accelerated students can add to their asynchronous repertoire is self-directed projects. Students in an asynchronous program can enhance their learning experience and build a solid foundation for their future (whether in academia or the workforce), by setting their own deadlines, and plan outlines.  Students who choose to work on a self-directed project will build and refine essential skills, fostering a sense of responsibility, building organization skills, and strengthening work ethic. These skills are invaluable and will create pathways to future success in the workplace. Self-directed projects allow for creative freedom and also the freedom to choose where their project will go, allowing them to “be their own boss”. These types of projects and research activities deepen understanding of the material and build a love for learning as the student has taken ownership in their learning journey. Through self directed projects and research, students can take advantage of asynchronous schedules to pursue projects that align with their own interests and goals. Platforms provided by PA Virtual can facilitate showcasing projects and providing feedback to students.

 

Another way advanced students can engage and be invested in asynchronous learning is through utilizing the technology available to keep student interest activated. In a cyber school setting, technology can enhance the learning experience for learners of all levels through curriculum based applications, organizer tool apps, skill challenge, and improvement apps.  Educational apps and digital tools promote interactive learning and collaboration with other peers and mentors. The use of technology is not limited to just learning but also connecting with others and accessing global education resources. Encouraging real-world applications of the content allows students to see the relevance beyond their virtual classroom. This can aid an advanced learner in making deeper connections and understanding that can carry-over into practical ways in real-life situations. Some collaborative online tools include: Nearpod, Google Docs, Padlet, and MindMeister. These tools can be used to promote discussion and engagement in what otherwise could be a solitary learning environment.

 

Asynchronous learning has the potential to open new doors in advanced student learning and experience. This learning model can benefit advanced learners and at PA Virtual, we are ready to help learners thrive and grow in an asynchronous setting. Whether it is a customized learning plan, enhancing skills through self-directed projects or utilizing technology to stay engaged, students can excel in an asynchronous learning environment. The potential long-term effects of asynchronous learning are endless, including supporting college readiness skills, opening doors to career opportunities, and fostering lifelong learning skills.