Page 316 - Nutrition Counseling and Education Skills: A Guide for Professionals

Instructional information may be delivered in a synchronous or asynchronous manner. In synchronous
learning, all the participants are learning at the same time. This may be one on one, as a small group, or as a
large group. Traditionally, synchronous learning was done in one location in an office, classroom, or
conference room. Today, synchronous learning can occur at two or more sites via many methods such as
videoconferencing, with distributed accompanying printed materials or live webinar interactive Internet
presentations. Asynchronous learning is “anytime learning.” Reading a journal article, watching a podcast
from a web site, and participating in an e-mail discussion based on your schedule are examples of
asynchronous learning. Asynchronous learning gives learners much more freedom over their approach to
learning. They can read, listen, or watch the material until they are comfortable with it. Both types of
education should be designed so the learner must actively participate in the process whether by participating
with others or by completing tutorials and quizzes.

Computer-based learning modules are common in many work sites. Computer-based instruction can be
used in various ways. It provides time flexibility and a consistent message.2,7 Learners read or listen and
complete practice or comprehensive tests. This method is particularly good for learning facts such as
remembering medical terminology or practicing skills such as calculating a parenteral nutrition solution. The
clients or employees are given rapid feedback on how well they comprehend the material. Tutorials, games,
and simulations may augment the learning.

Today, the technology and teaching methods have advanced to the point that very interactive facilitated
learning between teacher and student can occur via the computer. Computer-based distance education is a
rapidly growing instructional media format. An online distance education class generally has all the
components of a traditional class: textbooks, readings, assignments, and tests. The class discussion is replaced
by a web-based discussion facilitated by the teacher. The lecture is replaced by readings, visual lectures, and
audio or video streaming. The students and faculty generally need high-speed Internet connections.8,9

For “just-in-time” patient, client, or employee education, many institutions are using stand-alone computer
kiosks (terminals). This touch-screen approach allows access to information from convenient locations with
visual and audio components. Clients can get information when they need it. It does not replace, but rather
augments, the food and nutrition professional’s message.10–12

These two types of learning can be used in tandem and in any order. For example, a newly diagnosed
diabetic can first engage in asynchronous learning by collecting and reviewing information individually by
searching the Internet, reading pamphlets, or watching videos. Synchronous learning can occur when that
individual attends a group class and receives information simultaneously with others.

CASE ANALYSIS 3

How could Julie create a handwashing curriculum using both asynchronous and synchronous learning?

Types of Visual Media

After considering what needs to be communicated and evaluating the audience needs, the food and nutrition
professional selects the appropriate instructional media for the purpose. A single format or several options may

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