Electronic Communication Tools

There are many modes of electronic communication available within schools today. Each type is broken down into one of two categories; asynchronous and synchronous. Asynchronous is communication that does not result in an immediate response. This could include anything from email to thread discussions. These are helpful methods of discussion for a classroom when immediate feedback is not required. Synchronous on the other hand, is communication that is taking place on both sides at the present time. Examples of synchronous communication are audio conferences and instant messages. These are very helpful tools for the classroom if immediate feedback is desired. A virtual classroom is a form of synchronous communication. A virtual classroom can be a wonderful tool for a teacher who would like for a class to have a discussion outside of the actual classroom. This tool allows students to log on and chat with their class over the internet.

One other method of communication that was used during this class was the discussion board. Within LearnOnline is a communication tool called discussion board. This discussion board allowed everyone in my class to post their person response to a specific question that the teacher posted for us. Using this discussion board we are also able to reply to each other's responses. Below is a screen shot of one such posting...