Zoom has taken over the world with nearly every school in the country using it to teach online courses. But should online classes be conducted this way? Online classes that require synchronous lectures through platforms such as Zoom are not ideal for many students. Asynchronous learning is more beneficial.

Asynchronous learning has one main advantage: flexibility. It allows students to complete class requirements on their own time. This helps students develop and acknowledge their own learning styles. By realizing which strategies work best, students can focus on those areas at their own pace. Students can attend class when they are available rather than at a specific time, helping many students in different time zones. 

Online courses that use video meetings can be harmful to the mental health of a student. According to the New York Times, “Psychologists, computer scientists and neuroscientists say the distortions and delays inherent in video communication can end up making you feel isolated, anxious and disconnected (or more than you were already).” 

Self-isolation during the pandemic has caused many people to feel alone and disconnected from the real world. We don’t need to make the situation worse with the use of Zoom to conduct lectures.

The main issue with synchronous video lectures is that students are required to attend class at a specific time. This usually means in the morning or midday hours, and it hinders students’ abilities to work or complete other essential tasks during the day. During the pandemic, everyone has taken a financial blow. Pre-recorded lectures allow students to maintain a job and cover expenses.

Online courses should remain flexible for students by having pre-recorded lectures. Students should not be required to open a video chat every day at a specific time to sit behind a camera for a two-hour lecture. This method is too distracting for students. I often found myself being distracted by my environment or faulty technology. I haven’t been able to acquire a job because most jobs end near 5 p.m. to follow local curfew during the pandemic. This is the same time I would be getting out of Zoom classes.

Transition to the full asynchronous learning experience is just more beneficial for students overall. The pandemic has caused so much change, but at least this method of online classes will help students feel in control of their learning.