My Reflections on Education

The learning experience throughout my educational career has been diverse and varied. I have learned within both synchronous and asynchronous environments. Both of these methodologies have their strengths as well as their drawbacks.

The synchronous experience for me was enriching in that it allowed me to learn new concepts within an environment of nurturing support. I enjoyed the synchronous learning format, it provided for instant feedback and an established support network. Teachers and classmates offered an interactive environment which challenged my knowledge and understanding of the curriculum. The need to for constant follow up with lesson plans and learning material was not as necessary, as in asynchronous environments.

The asynchronous learning environment made up the bulk of my graduate learning experience. The asynchronous learning environment offered some major distinctions from that of the synchronous model. The major difference between the two lies in the ability to manipulate knowledge. Within the asynchronous instructional environment the learning dialogue, materials and textbooks are documented in a virtual format. This allows for the easy utilization, documentation and categorization of material in a way unmatched by its synchronous counterpart.

The synchronous learning environment is excellent for situations that allow for the time and mobilization needs of face to face learning. Traditional educational institutions as well as businesses and organizations utilize this model of learning.