An overview of Online Synchronous Learning Environments (OSLE)

An online synchronous learning environment (OSLE), such as Adobe Connect , Eluminate and Wimba , is a web program which enables learners and tutors to meet and discuss virtually. These environments support voice and text communication as well as video and may also be referred to as ‘webcasting.’ Audio and digital materials, for example, PowerPoints, images, WORD and EXCEL documents, websites and video clips can be shared and discussed in large plenary groups or in break-out groups, with or without the tutor as illustrated in Figure 1. Unlike video-conferencing, learners can access the OSLE from within or outwith the institution – at home, on placement, or at work – as long as they have access to a computer with broadband Internet access.

Figure 1: An online synchronous learning environment

Materials can be prepared in advance by tutors for sessions in OSLEs and then uploaded, as and when appropriate. Tutors can control the environment allowing for discussions (voice and text) at appropriate junctures in the session. Students can indicate when they wish to ask a question, when they are confused or when they understand an explanation by selecting an appropriate symbol, for example, a ‘thumbs-up’ or a ‘thumbs-down’. Some of the programs have a voting or polling facility for learner feedback. Usually these sessions can be archived.

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