4.3.1 Synchronous Session

How does integrating synchronous learning sessions within the online environment assist in developing a learning community for students?

The synchronous learning session is the pivotal piece in terms of real-time, "live" communication for the members of the online classroom. The teacher has designed an engaging lesson that clearly supports the course content and learning standards with a variety of interactive exercises that "check the pulse" by requiring the student to answer a question, participate in a quick survey, raise his/her electronic hand - anything that gives everyone a chance to engage in the virtual community.

Teachers must also be mindful of personality types (introverts & extroverts) and incorporate different modes of interaction (thumbs up, thumbs down) so that all students feel safe, welcome and validated for their participation - no matter its form.