I believe a blend of both asynchronous and synchronous learning delivery best addresses the needs of most online learners who need to benefit from flexibility to juggle school, work, family and life in today's hectic environment. The ability to record synchronous webinars or "chat sessions" allow those that can't make a set chat due to scheduling conflict, permits them to view and listen 7/24 when time permits.
Instant messaging is a really useful technology tool enabling students and instructors to 'see' who is online and communicate as necessary.
I personally believe online students have more ways to interact with their class, classmates and instructor compared to their on-ground counterparts who typically are not available or accessible outside of campus schedules. Further, I believe the Covid-19 virus has only expanded the use and familiarity of online education to the degree that it will eventually become the norm with less and less dependence with on-ground/in-class instruction.
