2. Remote Online Program Delivery
Defining remote program delivery
Before we get into the details of remote online program delivery, there are two sets of terms that you should be familiar with. These refer to the type of programming that you will be delivering and how/when participants and instructors interact during programming.
Delivery Types
Below are the definitions that Actua uses to describe the different types of remote engagement that we, and network members, engage in:
Term | Definition |
Remote Workshops | A remote workshop is the online or distance equivalent of a traditional workshop/presentation. Typically, this requires registration by a school/classroom, community partner, or participants/parents/guardians and includes live interaction between participants and facilitators. |
Remote Programs | A remote program would involve repeated engagements with the same registered participants. Typically, this includes live interaction between participants and facilitators. |
Remote Events | A live presentation accessible remotely that does not fit the format of a traditional workshop. |
Nature of instructor-participant interaction
These terms are used to describe how and when instructors and participants interact with each other during remote programming.
Term | Definition |
Synchronous | Participants and instructors attend an online session together, at the same time, analogous to participants attending an in-person program for a set amount of time during the day. Synchronous delivery typically uses a video conferencing platform (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, etc.) where participants are able to see and hear each other in real-time. |
Asynchronous | Participants independently access content, potentially at different times, without an instructor or other participants present. Video and audio, whether it’s produced by instructors or other participants, might still be used but are pre-recorded clips. Asynchronous delivery relies on materials and instructions being sent in advance (e.g., an activity kit or booklet) or on using a website, platform, or Learning Management System (e.g., Google Classroom, D2L, etc.) where instructors are able to post information. |
Blended (or hybrid) | Some combination of synchronous and asynchronous interaction. This might take the form of, for example, a self-guided activity kit with scheduled interactions between instructors and participants to give participants a chance to ask questions or share work. |
This module is primarily concerned with synchronous online delivery, as this (or blended) will likely be the most common form of interaction that you will have with participants. Content design also plays a key role in creating positive online STEM experiences, but that is covered in more detail in another instructor training module, STEM Content Development.