Question

Which one is an example of synchronous electronic community?

Answer 1

A.

instant messaging




B.
forum




C.
blog




D.
newsgroup

Answer 2

Synchronous means at the same time. A good example is taking an online course. In a synchronous course, everyone is supposed to be online at the same time. In an asychronous course, you don't have to be online when everyone else is - you can work when it works best for you.

So, which of the options listed above would require you to be communicating at the same time as the other parties?

Answer 3

It might also be worth considering the degree of permanence to the message and if interaction with past communication is possible. In a purely synchronous system if someone isn't online when something is sent then often they will not be able to see it. A synchronous system may have a logging or archive function that will allow people to view past communications but they will not be able to interact.

In an asynchronous system whilst it may be possible to be online at the same time as someone else and interact with their messages immediately the messages will have a high degree of permanence and users will be able to respond to and interact with past messages.

Another thing to consider might be moderation, i.e. the prevention/removal of material deemed unsuitable. In a synchronous system, as messages are available to all participants as soon as they are sent, moderation must be reactive and retrospective (warning and banning users who breach the rules). In an asynchronous system, as messages do not have to be visible to participants as soon as they are sent, it is possible to implement moderation which is proactive, the message can be blocked before the other paticipants can see it.

Perhaps try looking at the examples you give and applying these markers?