Course Models that Meet Different Needs

Rather than adopt a rigid, one-size-fits-all model of online learning, CTD offers online learning opportunities in a variety of formats to serve our diverse community of learners. Each model is tailored to be appropriate for students at particular stages of development and appropriate for the learning goals of the course. Courses vary in length, intensity, and mix of independent and collaborative learning opportunities.

Learn more about the distinction between asynchronous and synchronous learning at CTD.

What is asynchronous learning?

Asynchronous learning means students and instructors engage in class-related activities at different times, rather than in regularly scheduled live meetings. The benefits of this type of learning are numerous and reach beyond the classroom.

Students set the pace.

Course content is available for students when it best suits their schedules – engage your inner early bird or night owl!

Students can also advance quickly through course material where they are able to and spend more time digging into concepts that are more challenging or of higher interest. This allows students to complete course work based on their true understanding of the material, rather than being tied to the needs of the class cohort.

The learning community can be local or global.

Some students work on online courses during their regular school day, taking a CTD course in lieu of a traditional course in school. Some schools use CTD courses to provide instruction for a group of students who need an advanced course not offered at their grade level or in their school.

Other students take courses supplementally and engage in coursework primarily in the evening and on weekends. CTD courses are open to students regardless of where they live or their type of schooling, so not being tied to a common schedule allows students with diverse schedules and different time zones to share ideas and learn together.

Feedback is personalized and provides another layer of instruction.

Schoology, CTD’s Learning Management System, provides real-time analytics to instructors, noting when students have completed course work. Instructors can then provide individualized feedback to students through written or audio message to ensure comprehension and appropriate level of challenge.

Small class sizes at CTD allow instructors to provide personalized support, and Online Program instructors reply to student questions and concerns within 24 to 48 hours of receiving a student inquiry (not including holidays).

Online tools allow for collaboration and community building.

Asynchronous learning at CTD means independence, but not isolation. Unlike online learning programs based on navigating standardized “click and next” tutorial software, online learners at CTD join vibrant online communities. Students converse and collaborate using a rich set of online discussion tools, and instructors promote community building within the online platform to promote learning, engagement, and fun.

Skill-building is applied beyond the classroom.

Asynchronous learning aids students in developing valuable time management, planning, organization, and self-regulation skills to help them succeed now and in the future.

Asynchronous online learning is used in a variety of programs at CTD.

Online Family Program, Enrichment, Core Essentials, Honors, AP, and Accelerated Summer Online courses are primarily taught asynchronously.