Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What type of communication occurs when the exchange does not require both parties to be active participants at the same time?

1. Synchronous communication

2. Asynchronous communication

3. Distributed computing

4. Open system

The correct answer is: Asynchronous communication

Asynchronous communication is characterized by the ability for messages to be sent and received at different times, allowing individuals to participate without the need for both parties to be present simultaneously. This form of communication enables participants to respond at their convenience, making it ideal for situations where immediate feedback is not necessary. Examples of asynchronous communication include emails, recorded messages, and discussion forums, where one party can send information and the other can respond later. In contrast, synchronous communication requires both parties to engage at the same time, such as in a phone call or video conference, where real-time interaction takes place. Distributed computing and open systems do not directly relate to the timing and participation aspect of communication, which is the focus of this question.