(Live, Real-Time, Not Always Co-Located)

Definition:

Synchronous learning reflects instruction where all participants are engaged at the same time, though not necessarily in the same place. It includes both in-person and virtual formats such as web conferencing, live video lectures, and virtual breakouts (Kumar & Eisenberg, 2023; Parslow, 2012).

Recommended Formats:

·   Live video conferencing (Zoom, MS Teams)

·   Instructor-led virtual group sessions

·   Supervised consultations or peer activities in real-time

·   Instructor- or TA-led breakout rooms

·   Live virtual case studies or simulations

Key Features:

·   Real-time dialogue and feedback

·   Higher learner accountability and engagement

·   Critical for interactive and supervision-intensive modules

(Non-Live, Self-Paced Instruction)

Definition:

Asynchronous learning involves instructional content and activities accessed independently, without real-time interaction. Learners proceed at their own pace, typically through pre-recorded lectures or digital tasks (Kumar & Eisenberg, 2023).

Recommended Formats:

·   Pre-recorded instructional videos

·   Interactive modules with embedded tasks

·   Instructor-reviewed reflections, journals, or quizzes

Key Guidelines:

·   No more than 25% of total instructional hours may be asynchronous

·   Only instructional video/audio durations count toward asynchronous hours

·   Self-paced tasks (e.g., readings, forum posts) do not count unless tied to instructional content

·   All asynchronous components must include:

·   Structured learning objectives

·   Alignment with assessments

·   Feedback mechanisms (even if delayed)

Note: Asynchronous learning—of any type—must not exceed 25% of total learning hours across all levels, from Foundational through Level 4.

(Independent, Non-Instructed Learning Time)

Definition:

Self-study refers to time learners spend independently preparing for or reinforcing formal instruction. It includes non-assessed, non-facilitated learning tasks.

Examples Include:

·   Reading assigned materials

·   Journaling or writing assignments

·   Practicing tools in real-life contexts

·   Independent literature review

 Guidelines:

·   Self-study hours are excluded from required accreditation hours

·   May be referenced in curriculum overviews but not counted toward credit

(Independent, Non-Instructed Learning Time)

Definition:

Blended learning combines asynchronous preparation with synchronous or face-to-face engagement to deepen understanding.

Examples Include:

·   Watching a video module followed by a live seminar

·   Reading a case study in advance of a peer dialogue

·   Completing a pre-class quiz used in a real-time debrief

Requirements:

·   Programs must clearly distinguish synchronous vs. asynchronous components

·   Blended activities must be purposefully integrated to support learning outcomes