Asynchronous Tools for Interaction and Collaboration

Abstract

The shift from conventional classrooms to the use of various types of distributed education is well documented in the literature. This shift occurred over the past 30 years, if not longer. Open, distance, and digital education (or ODDE) has become ubiquitous in education and training in a variety of settings such as the military, business, higher education, and K12 schools. More recently, ODDE has seen a rise in use in other settings, such as health care organizations. Although both synchronous and asynchronous technologies are available for teaching and learning, it appears that asynchronous tools are predominant in these settings. The use of asynchronous tools is the primary focus of this chapter, with consideration of both the technologies employed and the strategies applied. The purposes are to summarize their appropriate uses in terms of collaborative learning and share any insights to guide future research and practice. The chapter begins with a brief definition of terms used in this chapter along with descriptions of the types and purposes of asynchronous tools. The chapter culminates in directions for future research as well as any improvements in ODDE practice.