What is Asynchronous Learning?

“Asynchronous” is a rather long word that means “not happening at the same time.” But what is asynchronous learning in higher education? It’s a flexible pathway to a college degree that allows you to fit a college education into your busy schedule. However, there’s even more to asynchronous learning than that!

In this blog post, you’ll discover what asynchronous learning is, its benefits to your educational and career goals, and how to determine if it’s the right fit for you.

What Is Asynchronous Learning?

Asynchronous learning is a flexible form of learning that empowers you to read materials and perform classwork without strict parameters on when and where you learn. Instructors present course material, and students complete assignments and assessments, but they happen asynchronously (i.e., not at the same time). In an asynchronous learning environment, there are specific class start dates and assignment completion deadlines. However, you interact with your coursework, peers, and instructors on your own time and from any location.

Given the capabilities of modern technology, many forms of asynchronous learning occur online. Online asynchronous learning is similar to an online self-paced education, except the pace of your learning is guided by a well-defined, structured program curriculum. This structure keeps coursework on track and enables you to graduate within a specific timeframe. However, you still have flexibility because classes are not live. You can view lesson materials and watch instructional videos as often as you want. 

Another way to understand asynchronous learning more fully is to know what it is not. It’s not a “virtual classroom,” where students meet over Zoom and submit assignments at set times throughout the semester. Asynchronous learning is also not “at-your-own-pace” or “instruction-free” learning, in which students start and end classes whenever and in whatever order they want. Instead, students join a welcoming learning community that offers ongoing support from instructors and academic success coaches.

The Benefits of an Asynchronous Education

Online asynchronous learning is appealing in higher education because it makes a college education possible for those with ongoing work and family responsibilities. In an asynchronous degree program, you don’t need to quit your job or ignore family obligations while pursuing your degree.

A recent Gallup/Lumina Foundation survey found that affordability and the need to continue working were the top reasons unenrolled adults said they weren’t in college. Online asynchronous learning makes it possible to overcome the obstacles standing between you and a college degree.

Here are some specific benefits online asynchronous learning offers to adult learners:

1. Schedule Flexibility

Asynchronous learning allows you to access course materials at the time of day that works for you. You can watch instruction videos and complete assignments in the morning, evening, weekend, or whatever time you choose. This flexibility allows you to focus on learning when you’re most alert and undistracted and makes it easier to combine work and family responsibilities with your coursework.

Working adults aren’t the only ones who value the flexibility of asynchronous learning. Students of various ages and life stages also prefer it over other options. A nationwide survey of students 18 and older conducted by Anthology found that students preferred online asynchronous learning to any other learning method, including online synchronous classes, a mix of online and in-person classes, and fully in-person classes.

2. Affordability

Asynchronous online learning is often more affordable than synchronous on-site learning. It allows you to maintain your income and continue working full time while you complete your degree. Additionally, you can save on expenses such as transportation costs, campus housing, and a student meal plan.

Although an online degree program is likely a more affordable option, going to college is still a significant investment. That’s why MVNU Online provides financial aid assistance to applicants. When you apply to one of our undergraduate or graduate programs, you get access to financial aid advisors who can help you explore college funding options. 

Possible sources of financial assistance include:

• Federal financial aid
• Scholarships
• Grants
• Employer tuition reimbursement
• VA loans
• Graduate assistantships for master’s degree candidates

3. Flexible Interactions with Faculty, Peers, and Advisors

Unlike synchronous alternatives, asynchronous learning does not require participation in live classes. It allows students to engage with instructors and participate in peer-to-peer discussions without the constraints of fixed class times.

Asynchronous programs such as MVNU Online also offer student support resources, including access to enrollment specialists, academic advisors, and career advisors. Students can connect with these individuals via email, phone, text, and video conference. Together, they help students become part of a supportive learning community that encourages personal and professional development.

4. Global Accessibility

Asynchronous learning promotes the inclusion of learners from just about anywhere. Because campus visits are not required, students can enroll from any state, and international students don’t need a visa to take online classes.

Participating in an online degree program with a global reach also makes interacting with students from other countries and time zones possible. This boundaryless approach to education helps to create an inclusive, accessible environment that welcomes students with diverse perspectives and experiences.

5. Effective Time Management

Because an asynchronous online degree program allows you to focus on coursework when it works best for you, it can also sharpen your time management and organization skills. As you identify efficient ways to digest class material and complete assignments, you can fall into a rhythm of completing coursework, going to work, and managing other responsibilities without missing a beat. Over time, you may become so efficient with your time that you’ll find it easier to complete assignments well ahead of their due dates.