Introduction
As online learning and training continues to grow, there are many companies that have developed products to support asynchronous and synchronous learning within the online world. This paper is a comparison of two of these products: BlackBoard, an asynchronous technology, and Elluminate Live, a synchronous technology. In the scope of this analysis, the general aspects, the technological and pedagogical views, and the strengths and weaknesses of these two products will be examined.
General Aspects of the Systems
BlackBoard, an asynchronous technology, is considered to be a Learning Management System (LMS). A web-based LMS, like BlackBoard, is a collection of tools within one application that allows the instructor to select what tools to use to enhance the online learning environment. Examples of some of these tools include mail, discussion board, announcements, etc. The idea behind asynchronous technologies is that it allows users to interact with one another at different times. For example, users can log into the technology and utilize the discussion board to interact. Users would continue to log in throughout the assigned period (as outlined by the instructor) and post and respond to other users. The key is that no set meeting time is required while collaboration can exist between the students and instructor.
Elluminate Live, is an example of a synchronous technology. Synchronous technologies require that users are logged in at the same time to the application. The instructor then utilizes a set of tools in real time with the participants. Typical synchronous tools include web white-boarding that uses audio and/or video conferencing, chat, and file sharing.
Asynchronous Technological View
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The roots of synchronous teaching can be date back to the use of closed circuit television in the campus university in decade of 1940. Video conferencing and interactive television which connected remote classrooms came into work in the 1980’s, which allowed students to ask their questions and have discussion’s (Bernard et al., 2004). “Synchronous communication and collaboration tools, such as synchronous text chat, audio-conferencing, video-conferencing, and white boards, are increasingly important components of online learning” (National Center for Accessible Media, 2005). The users of synchronous mode are not limited to individuals and can be multiply used, which have become common teaching applications, though they are considered optional course features (Burnett, 2003).
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The interactive whiteboard has been in use in the corporate arena for many years and has been successful in making impact on customers through a seamless presentation of data. The interactive whiteboard has made a jump to the classroom and has been able to have just as significant of an impact but for many different reasons. The interactive whiteboard has become a tool to engage students, provide for student involvement in the learning process and has generally made learning more fun for both teacher and student. There are many articles about the use of interactive whiteboards and there have been researchers throughout the world measuring the benefits that these boards are providing to the impact of learning and delivery of knowledge.
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