In order to
design a successful  blended or online
course we need a framework. This framework integrates numerous elements and
there are many decisions that we need to make. One important element is to have
a balance between synchronous and asynchronous activities. It has been
suggested that more complex issues need reflection and asynchronous activities,
whereas synchronous communication has advantages when less complex issues need
to be discussed (Cleveland-Innes and Wilton, 2018).That sounds interesting and
logical; however, I believe that learning is a complex phenomenon and that the
best way to address complex issues is to have a circular structure that combines
synchronous and asynchronous communication. Collaboration is the key for deeper
learning and synchronous communication (in-person or online) provides an active
collaborative experience. Engagement with the literature and reflection are
also equally important. I believe that students should benefit from
participating in courses where they first engage with the literature, then
participate in synchronous and finally in asynchronous activities. Depending on
the complexity of the topic, one or more such circles are needed. Even self-guided
learners can benefit from synchronous activities (Pappas, 2015) and my personal
view is that such activities should be an important part of blended and online
courses.