UGCNET Questions

Synchronous communication occurs when interaction happens in real time with immediate feedback. Live video conferencing allows participants to see and hear each other, ask questions and respond instantly. It is widely used in online classes, webinars and virtual meetings. Therefore, it clearly represents a synchronous ICT tool in education.

Option A:
This option correctly points to real-time video conferencing platforms that approximate face-to-face classroom interaction. They support audio, video, screen sharing and chat simultaneously. Because teacher and students are present at the same time, communication is synchronous. Hence, this tool fits the definition in the question.

Option B:
Email communication is inherently asynchronous because messages are sent and read at different times. Participants do not need to be online simultaneously. While valuable for reflection and documentation, email does not provide immediate back-and-forth interaction.

Option C:
Recorded lectures uploaded to an LMS can be accessed at any convenient time, making them asynchronous resources. Students cannot usually interact live with the teacher while watching these recordings. Hence, this tool does not represent synchronous communication.

Option D:
Downloadable e-textbooks allow self-paced reading and study, which is asynchronous. They do not provide live interaction or instant feedback from teachers or peers. Therefore, they are not examples of synchronous communication tools.

Asynchronous communication does not require participants to be online simultaneously. Discussion forums allow learners to read and write posts when convenient, supporting reflection and flexible access. Teachers can respond later, and threads remain available for revision. Therefore, this example clearly represents asynchronous interaction supported by ICT.

Option A:
This option correctly shows time independence as the defining feature of asynchronous modes. It illustrates how ICT extends classroom dialogue beyond fixed schedules and allows participation from diverse locations and time zones.

Option B:
Live lectures require everyone to connect at the same time, which is characteristic of synchronous communication. Audio and video flow in real time, so this example is not asynchronous.

Option C:
Scheduled webinars with real-time chat are also synchronous, as the event happens at a specific time and participants interact instantly.

Option D:
Online viva voce examinations involve immediate questioning and answering, which is again synchronous.