Teaching with Online Communication Tools
Teaching with Synchronous Communication Tools
What are synchronous tools?
Web-based synchronous communication (online communication which
occurs in real time) has become commonplace over the past five
years. A number of commercial “chat” tools such as
AOL Instant Messenger, are regularly used for formal and informal
synchronous communication. Course management software, such as
Illinois Compass, also provide chat functions which allow for the
transmission of images, simultaneous viewing of “whiteboard” drawings,
and shared Internet browsing as well as text-based communication.
Recently, synchronous tools allowing audio and video transmission
have become more widespread. These are not yet incorporated into
UIUC course management software. However, CITES EdTech
can offer suggestions and limited support for instructors who wish
to incorporate synchronous video and audio into their teaching.
Classroom Communication
Synchronous communication tools are often used in distance learning
classes to create a virtual classroom environment, where students
can ask questions, discuss, and even “whisper” to their
neighbor from their home computer. As wireless technology becomes
more available, synchronous communication tools will find their
way into large lecture classes, where students will be able to
participate, ask and answer questions, and interact with classmates,
without interrupting the flow of the presentation. CITES EdTech is investigating both the technological and pedagogical
means to integrate synchronous online communications into face-to-face classrooms equipped with wireless technology.
Instructor Student Communication
Chat tools provide an informal means for students to interact
with faculty. Instructors and TAs have begun establishing online
office hours when students can contact them via chat or other related
synchronous tools. Instructors using online office hours have reported
that the informality of the environment and the instantaneous response
has increased the numbers of students contacting them, breaking
down some of the impersonality of a large class.
Group Work
Synchronous tools can be helpful in assisting group work and peer
learning among students. The tools can either be set up within
existing groups or for the entire class. For group work, students
can collaborate virtually allowing more flexibility in the completion
of an out-of-class assignment. Chat forums can also be set up that
all students in a class have access to. Such a forum can encourage
students to ask another student online for help or assistance.
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