Online education comes with a range of instructional models designed for different learners and goals. Here are some essential terms to help you navigate how courses are built and delivered:
Asynchronous Learning
Students work independently, accessing content and completing assignments 100% of the time on their own schedule.
Synchronous Learning
This involves attending live, scheduled virtual classes—connecting with instructors and peers in real time.
Self-Paced Learning
Self-paced lets students move through lessons as quickly or slowly as they choose, often with flexible deadlines.
Competency-Based Learning
This allows students to progress by mastering material, rather than following a set schedule or course length.
Project-Based Learning (PBL)
Builds courses around real-world projects and hands-on problem-solving, making learning practical and meaningful.
Adaptive or Personalized Learning
Uses technology to tailor content and pacing to each student’s strengths, challenges, and interests.
Flipped Classroom
This approach delivers instructional content online, saving live sessions for group discussion, practice, or applied activities.