Asynchronous Teaching
What is Asynchronous Teaching?
Asynchronous learning does not require learners’ presence in the same place (physical or virtual) at the same time.
Asynchronous instruction may include text or audio when those formats meet the instructional need. Video is not required. While asynchronous material can be shared in a variety of ways, we recommend using Sakai as the main resource for storing course materials.
Asynchronous Teaching in Sakai
Example:
In addition to the resources below, we have created a Sakai course (Asynchronous Teaching) that is open to all ND Faculty members. You will be prompted to log-in through Okta.
In this course, you will see an expanded collection of examples of Asynchronous materials, approaches, and resources. An emphasis has been placed upon showcasing Resources, Discussion Forums, and Communication Approaches.
Asynchronous Content Creation
If you're interested in learning how to produce asynchronous content, we will be developing a list of tutorials and resources.
Screencasting:
Creating video content for your course can take many different shapes:
PPT or Keynote lectures
software demonstrations
video messages or class updates
voice-over narration to existing videos on your desktop, etc
Annotated PowerPoint:
Sometimes the most basic solutions can be the best. Leaving commentary in PowerPoint's presenter notes provides a great low-tech and low-bandwidth way for you to guide learners through your content.
Example:
This PPT was used by Prof. Kristi Rudenga during last year's Polar Vortex.
Open in a way that displays the presenter notes to view guidance left by the instructor.
Audio Lectures, Weekly Updates, and Podcasts
Creating audio lectures or weekly updates that can be uploaded to Sakai is also another simple and low-bandwidth resource for students. There are a variety of simple tools to create audio recordings on your own, however here are a few resources to get started:
Podcasting takes this idea one step further by allowing students to listen to your content outside of Sakai on a popular platforms like Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcast, and more. There are a variety of websites that offer free podcast hosting and distribution.
*When publishing audio publicly please understand and consider the privacy risks
Infographics
Infographics are a great way to visually represent complex ideas or data. Journalists, marketers, scientists, and others use them to visualize data, processes, and research findings. Infographics can include pictures, diagrams, graphs, tables, maps, lists, timelines, flowcharts, and more.
Asynchronous Resources:
Thank you to all of our wonderful colleagues who shared their expertise and examples.
Continuing the Conversation: Using Class-Based Discussion Boards
Increase participants’ self-efficacy in utilizing asynchronous discussions as a means to engage learners.
Additional Resources:
Best Practices for Teaching Online: Arizona State University
How to Create Effective Online Discussions: Miami University