“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

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 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

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 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: medellincampus@cnu.edu.ph
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 
 

17 
 
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

21 
 
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

23 
 
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