“Students
Perception of Distance Learning: A comparison of Synchronous and
Asynchronous Online Learning in Cebu Normal University‐Medellin Campus”
S.Y. 2021 ‐ 2022
________________________________
A Research
Presented to
Mr. Chrysler M. Cabusa
_________________________________________________
by
Son, Jean Keth
Batiancila, Jea Mae
Verallo, Arabelle
Batarilan, Ed Naureen
Melendres, Angelie Jean
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Title Page i
Table of Contents ii
CHAPTER
I THE PROBLEM AND ITS RESEARCH DESIGN 1
Introduction 1
Rationale of the Study 1
Background of the Study 3
Conceptual Framework 5
Statement of the Problem 6
Hypotheses 6
Significance of the Study 7
Scope and Limitation 7
Definition of Terms 8
II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 10
III RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 12
Research Respondents 12
ii
Research Environment 13
Research Instruments 14
iii
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE
INRODUCTION
Rationale of the Study
In this fast-changing world, where most conventional pathways have been
redefined by new ways and beliefs, preparing college students for the upcoming
years has become more difficult. Student should all be more open to the real world
and prepared them for the real work of survival to keep up with the world's rapid
changes but unintentionally we suffered a lot from pandemic that brings problems
and disasters to people.
According to recent studies, COVID-19 has reshaped the way global
education is delivered. Due to the pandemic, millions of students were affected by
educational institution closures, resulting in the largest online movement in
educational history. Universities had to quickly shift to virtual and digital strategies
as a result of the sudden shift away from traditional classrooms in many parts of
the world. Many people believe that even after the pandemic, people will still
continue to use online distance learning. A new hybrid model of education is
expected to emerge, and given the digital divide, new shifts in educational
approaches may widen equality gaps in an educational environment that had
changed dramatically, particularly in higher and lower education. Many schools
have temporarily closed and switched from on-campus and face-to-face class to
distance learning in order to combat the spread of Coronavirus and maintain a
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healthy social distance.
Educational content that students could explore at their leisure, and to have
formalized learning programs which they could complete at their own pace were
all available through online learning tools. As the world is coming back on its feet,
the administrators and teachers were tasked of revising and adjusting course
syllabi as they transitioned to alternative learning modalities, the synchronous and
asynchronous online learning. In this form of learning, the CNU-Medellin campus
also coped up with this new platform but struggled at first because of their limited
resources especially of giving out printed modules to those students who don't
have any access to internet.
In line with it, this research is of great importance because it will significantly
help the teachers of CNU-Medellin determine what best teaching method to use,
whether to have a synchronous or asynchronous online learning. It also aims to
understand what could be the student's perception of this two learning modalities,
as well as what factors influence college students' ability to achieve good grades.
Thus, this study will further improve the academic learning of the students of Cebu
Normal University - Medellin Campus in times of pandemic crisis.
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Theoretical Background
The study is anchored with Connectivism Learning Theory developed by
George Siemens which is known as the “Learning Theory for Digital Age and
Stimulus Response Theory. Connectivism theory explains on how students utilizes
intelligent in social networking where students today need to have laptops,
cellphones, computers and iPads to keep in touch with the changing world. As the
CNU-Medellin campus switched to alternative learning modalities, synchronous
and asynchronous online learning were viewed as a viable option for students to
continue enhancing their skills or capabilities. This theory emphasizes that the
teaching and learning process should be student-centered, collaborative, well-
guided, active, and flexible in order to provide an authentic learning environment.
This also supports the use of web-based e-learning tools to aid retention and pique
students' interest in online learning.
In Stimulus-Response theory does not completely utilize the rising e-
learning platform's full potential, but it does influence learning in the application of
Synchronous and Asynchronous instruction. It refers to a cognitive tradition in
online learning that focused on the effects of variables that influenced stimulus
reception and perceptual organization. It went on to say that in behaviorist
psychology, the coupling of a stimulus, which is anything in the environment that
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the learner can experience with his or her senses, and a response, which is any
behavior on the subject's part, forms the primary process of learning.
In the line of this theory, it further discusses that synchronous learning is
optimal for those students who can follow a specific schedule in terms of studying.
Synchronous learning is often preferred by students who appreciate structured
courses that include student engagement. When the teacher and the students
communicate in various places and at different times, this is known as
asynchronous distant learning. Students enrolling in asynchronous classes can
work on their assignments whenever they want. Asynchronous distance learning
is generally preferred by students with busy schedules. It also works effectively for
self-motivated students who do not require direct instruction in order to finish their
homework.
This study aims that measuring the most favored learning medium of CNU-
Medellin students for the successful way of learning online in these pandemic
times may be beneficial especially to teachers. The interconnectedness of these
factors and concepts is depicted in the diagram below.
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Conceptual Framework
LEARNING THEORY OF DIGITAL AGE
STIMULUS‐RESPONSE THEORY
BY GEORGE SIEMENS
Focused on the effects of variables that
Utilizes intelligent in social networking
influenced stimulus reception and
to keep in touch with the changing
perceptual organization which is part of
world .
primary process of learning.
DISTANCE LEARNING
SYNCHRONOUS ASYCHRONOUS
LEARNING LEARNING
PERCEPTION OF STUDENTS IN BOTH
MODALITIES
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THE PROBLEM
Statement of the Problem
This study assessed the most preferred learning medium of CNU-
Medellin students for the effective way of learning online in times of
pandemic whether they are in favor of synchronous or asynchronous
learning.
Specifically, this study aimed to answer the following questions:
1. What common gadgets are used in conducting online classes?
2. How stable internet connection or intermittent connection greatly
affects student’s studies?
3. What are the students’ perception about synchronous or
asynchronous learning as an effective way of teaching?
Statement of Hypothesis
Based upon the afore mentioned problems and statements the
researchers have formulated the following hypothesis about the students’
perception of distance learning on synchronous and asynchronous in Cebu
Normal University
-Medellin Campus.
Ho: Distance learning has no significant changes in the perception of
students in Cebu Normal University-Medellin Campus.
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Ha: Distance learning has significant changes in the perception of students
in Cebu Normal University-Medellin Campus.
Scope and Limitations
This study mainly focuses on the preferred way of learning from the third-
year education students in Cebu Normal University Medellin Campus towards the
distant learning they’ve encountered. The data collection will be conducted to 30%
of the total population by the third-year educators, school year 2021-2022 which
will represent the population. This study will not cover other problems that are not
considered as one of the modalities in learning. The other students which do not
fall as part of third-year educators are not within the scope of this research. The
study would be done through the utilization of the questionnaire to the students as
a survey and reference. The researchers will be able to know the most effective
learning medium of the third-year educator students of CNU-Medellin for the
successful way in pandemic.
Significance of the Study
The findings of this study will redound to the benefit of student's perspective
as to what is more effective for their mode of learning during this pandemic
embarking the new normal that includes distance education, also called distance
learning for all students and teachers affected with Covid-19. Considering the
situation, having this study contributes not only to students but also for teachers to
know what teaching methods they should apply and teaching strategies they will
employ in handing out the lessons, assignments, projects and etc. This would also
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help the parents in choosing what's more convenient band best for their children
to work on their school works during the online course.
Students are given the opportunity to choose between synchronous and
asynchronous for their learning areas. Thus, finding out students' preferences
plays an important role in giving them a choice to which modality could help them
achieve better grades or performance in school through the use of technologies,
e.g, smartphones, mobile phones, laptops, and computers, in line with the new
normal. With the aids of technology and other social media platforms that serves
as tools for teaching-learning processes, hence, this study provides insights about
the effectiveness use of asynchronous and synchronous to students who are
vulnerable to this during online learning, also this research allows students to
choose what they prefer and comfortable with, and knowing the availability of their
resources that will help them decide in partaking the online course.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Terms here are defined for the better understanding
of the readers.
Intermittent connection - it is where your connection speeds may seem slower
than normal especially when having an online class.
Stable internet connection – it is being able to attend all class meetings due to
the efficient internet connection.
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Asynchronous learning – a type of learning modality used to describe forms of
education, instruction, and learning that do not occur in the same place or at the
same time.
Synchronous learning – another type of learning modality which refers to a
learning event in which a group of students are engaging in learning at the same
time.
Technologies – are the gadgets used in the online class. This infuses with digital
learning tools, such as computers, cellphones, laptops and online modules sent
through the google classroom.
Online class – is a course conducted over the Internet and are a combination of
video recordings and live lectures with course reading and tests.
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
Online education may hold the key to prepare students for global
competitiveness. Online resources are now being considered as a means for
improving instruction, establishing flexibility in learners' reach to instruction, and
reducing the costs of instruction. To continue learning despite of pandemic,
synchronous and asynchronous learning are recognized as the most effective
online methods of learning in demonstrating how learners may modify their
thoughts for online instructions.
Hrastinski (2008) in a study, revealed that an asynchronous mode of
learning/teaching has been the most prevalent form of online teaching so far
because of its flexible modus operandi. Asynchronous environments provide
students with readily available material in the form of audio/video lectures,
handouts, articles and powerpoint presentations.
According to the studies of Huang & Hsiao (2012) they stated that
Asynchronous e-learning can be challenging as only a carefully devised set of
strategies can keep students engaged and interested in this sort of learning
environment to facilitate motivation, confidence, participation, problem solving,
analytical and higher order thinking skills. Furthermore, it is a self-paced system in
which students must be self-disciplined in order to stay engaged and interactive in
order to maintain track of e-activities. While discussions on forums and blogs can
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keep them active, deviating from the topic can also be distracting, and waiting for
feedback from the instructor or mentor can be another source of frustration.
Teng (2012), on the other hand, advocates for synchronous e- learning
since it allows for teacher-student and student-student interaction. Synchronous e-
learning refers to learning/teaching that occurs simultaneously via an electronic
form. Video-conferencing, in addition to chat, allows for face-to-face contact.
Surveys, polls, and question-and- answer sessions can make web conferences
more participatory than video conferencing. Through collaborative learning,
synchronous mode fosters a sense of community.
The cited study discussed Asynchronous and Synchronous Learning,
including its definition and how it operates. Furthermore, educators have
expressed worry about the educational effects of online modalities in CNU-M
students, therefore assessing the quality and effectiveness of these modalities has
become a focus. Online education has the greatest impact on individuals and
families because it provides much-needed flexibility. Identifying the preferred
modality of the CNU students throughout the pandemic will be extremely beneficial
to both teachers and students.
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Chapter 3
RESEARCH
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
The study adopted a quantitative research design to arrive at desired
results. The materials to be analyzed are the preferred modality of the 3rd year
educator students of Cebu Normal University - Medellin Campus during this online
class set-up.
Research Respondents
The respondents of the study were the 3rd year educator students of Cebu
Normal University - Medellin Campus during the academic year 2021 – 2022. The
study employed simple random sampling, meaning, the researchers randomly
select a subset of participants from the population of 3rd year educators. The
total population of the three sections of the 3rd year educators is 130 students.
We will select 50% of the total population and will give a questionnaire in a google
form to be able to achieve our research.
Table 1. Distribution of Respondents
Class No. of Population No. of Respondents
BEED 3 42 21
BSED 3A 42 21
BSED 3B 46 23
Total 130 65
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Environment of the Study
The study was conducted at Cebu Normal University- Medellin Campus.
It is located at Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu and one of the branch campuses of
Cebu Normal University.
Figure 2. Research Locale
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Research Instrument
The main source of data was derived from the Google form questionnaire
given by the 65 selected 3rd year educator students from The instrument used to
collect data was the questionnaire. The researcher utilized the student made
questionnaire structured in such way that it elicited answers to the specific
problems. It is appropriate since the respondents will be able to answer the
questions without any hesitation and conscious about their answer compare to
the interview.
Research Procedures
A. Data Gathering
A.1 Preliminary Investigation
A letter was sent to the campus dean of the Cebu Normal
University - Medellin campus in the person of Dr. Grace N. Malaga to ask
permission to conduct the study.
A.2 Actual Research
When the letter was approved, the researchers will randomly select 21
BEED 3 students, 21 BSED 3A students and 23 BSED 3B students for their
preferred modality to use during this online set-up. Their answers were used in
formulating the researcher-made tool in measuring the proficiency level in
asynchronous and synchronous learning.
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B. Statistical Treatment
After the data were gathered and collected, the statistical treatment used
was the weighted mean. The findings were used to conduct analysis, interpret
results, draw conclusions, and recommendations.
The weighted mean was used to identify the respondents' preferred
learning modalities and how these influenced their academic achievement
C. Scoring Procedure
To provide meaning to figures, the following scoring procedure was
employed.
The following scoring procedure was used in assessing the respondents’
preferred online modality for the third year Education students in Cebu Normal
University-Medellin Campus between Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning.
Table1. Scoring between Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
Modality
Range of Percentage Scores Description
0 – 20% Not Effective
20.01-40% Less Effective
40.01-60% Neutral
60.01-80% Effective
80.01-100% Very Effective
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REFERENCES:
Kunin, M., Julliard, K. N., & Rodriguez, T. E. (2014). Comparing Face-to-Face,
Synchronous, and Asynchronous Learning: Postgraduate Dental Resident
Preferences. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1002/j.0022-
0337.2014.78.6.tb05739.x
Chou, C. C. (n.d.). A comparative content analysis of student interaction in
synchronous and asynchronous learning networks. Retrieved from:
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/994093
Buxton, E. C. (2014). Pharmacists’ Perception of Synchronous Versus
Asynchronous Distance Learning for Continuing Education Programs. Retrieved
from https://www.ajpe.org/content/78/1/8
Roblyer, M. D., Freeman, J., Donaldson, M. B., & Maddox, M. (2007). A
comparison of outcomes of virtual school courses offered in synchronous and
asynchronous formats. Retrieved from:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S109675160700053X
Almahasees Z, et al.,(2021)"Faculty's and Students' Perceltioms of Online
Learning During Covid-19.Frontieirsm.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2021.638470/full(accessed
September 8,2021)
Kunin, M., Julliard, K. N., & Rodriguez, T. E. (2014). Comparing Face-to-Face,
Synchronous, and Asynchronous Learning: Postgraduate Dental Resident
Preferences. Journal of Dental Education, 78(6), 856–866. doi:10.1002/j.0022-
0337.2014.78.6.tb05739.x
Hrastinski, S. (2008) Asynchronous and Synchronous E-learning, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology. Retrieved from:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/238767486_Asynchronous_and_synchr
onous_e-learn
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Appendix A
Republic of the Philippines
Cebu Normal University
Osmeña Blvd. Cebu City, 6000 Philippines
Telephone No.: (+63 32) 436 2030/436 2029
Email:
[email protected] Website: www.cnu.edu.ph
November 19, 2021
DR. GRACE N. MALAGA
Campus Director
Cebu Normal University – Medellin Campus
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
Ma’am:
Good day!
We, students of Cebu Normal University‐Medellin Campus with outmost respect would like to
ask your permission to conduct a survey to the third year students . This is for the fulfillment of
our research entitled “Students Perception of Distance Learning :A comparison of Synchronous
and Asynchronous Online Learning in Cebu Normal University‐Medellin Campus”.
I am hoping for your favorable response.
Thank you and God speed!
Sincerely,
Jean Keth Son Arabelle Verallo
Researcher Researcher
Jea Mae Batiancila Ed Naureen Batarilan
Researcher Researcher
Angelei Melendres
Researcher
Noted by:
CHRYSLER M. CABUSA, MAVEd
Research Adviser
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Approved by:
JOSEPH SOL T. GALLEON, Ed.D,
Campus Director
B. Questionnaire
The Interview Guide on the Studen's Perception of Distance learning: A
comparison of Synchronous and
Asynchronous Online Learning in Cebu Normal University- Medellin Campus
The purpose of this interview is to gather data and information about the
preferred modality to use during this online set-up of the BSED students in Cebu
Normal University-Medellin Campus. Your honest response will greatly serve a
lot in attaining the aim and purpose of the study.
Questions:
1. What device/s you used during this online class set-up?
2. Do have strong internet connection or intermittent connection?
3. Do you find online class set-up hard or easy?
4. What do you think is the advantage and disadvantage of online class set-up?
5. What is your preferred modality? Asynchronous Learning or Synchronous?
Why?
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CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : Jean Keth Son
Address : Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
Date of Birth : November 25, 2000
Contact No. : 09995808153
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary : Medellin National Science and Technology School
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
2007-2012
Secondary : Medellin National Science and Technology School
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
2013 - 2018
Tertiary : Cebu Normal University
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
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PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : Jea Mae G. Batiancila
Address : Kawit, Medellin, Cebu
Date of Birth : June 23, 2000
Contact No. : 09213917389
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary : Kawit Elementary School
Kawit, Medellin, Cebu
2007-2012
Secondary : Kawit National High School Foundation Incorpated
Kawit, Medellin, Cebu
2013 - 2018
Tertiary : Cebu Normal University
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
20
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : Arabelle Verallo
Address : Cogon, Bogo City, Cebu
Date of Birth : April 1, 2000
Contact No. : 09759669077
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary : Bogo Central School-1
P.Rodriguez St., Bogo City. Cebu
2007-2012
Secondary : St.Louise de Marillac College of Bogo
Sor D. Rubio St., Bogo City, Cebu
2013-2018
Tertiary : Cebu Normal University
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
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PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : Ed Naureen T. Batarilan
Address : Antipolo, Medellin, Cebu
Date of Birth : May 23, 2000
Contact No. : 09771175979
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary : Medellin National Science and Technology School
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
2007-2012
Secondary : Medellin National Science and Technology School
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
2013 – 2018
Tertiary : Cebu Normal University
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
22
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : Angelie Jean Melendres
Address : Polambato, Bogo City, Cebu
Date of Birth : March 22, 2001
Contact No. : 09551362014
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary : Polambato Elementary School
Polambato, Bogo City, Cebu
2007-2012
Secondary : St.Louise de Marillac College of Bogo
Sor D. Rubio St., Bogo City, Cebu
2013-2018
Tertiary : Cebu Normal University
Poblacion, Medellin, Cebu
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