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Can Ministry Skills be Effectively Taught Online?
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 European
church leaders have realized that they will not be able to adequately train pastors and lay leaders solely by means of a traditional classroom method. But is online learning realistic?
In other articles we have examined some common myths about online learning (Myth 1 and Myth 2). In this issue, we want to consider whether Myths 3 and 4 are valid.
“Practical ministry competencies cannot be taught online.” This is what Myth 3 claims. “They may learn about ministry in a classroom—study models, discuss approaches, debrief assignments. Ministry competencies, however, are learned by doing.” (article) This quote from Rick Warren underlines the fundamental philosophy of online learning, namely, not just knowing more but applying the truths to life. While we are considering ministry competencies, we would do well to realize that most major companies have found eLearning to be the most effective  form of training for their employees. In a research study conducted by Skillsoft of 15 major industries (such as AT&T, FedEx, Hilton, Prudential,
and Xerox), it was learned that 87% can give tangible examples of eLearning effectiveness in practical application.
Practical ministry competencies are far more effectively learned in a normal-life context, where the student's natural mentors are already in place and where he can immediately apply the lessons he
is learning. For the online learner the discussion is not hypothetical but
rather what really happened to him this week. The emphasis is on “learning by doing” or interactivity and not
on “learning by listening,” where the student just sits and passively listens to the teacher.
Myth 4 asserts,
“Online learning is not as effective as the traditional classroom.” Learning can be effective in many formats but is certainly not dependent on a classroom setting! We have only to look at Jesus' teaching style to know that the lecture method is not the only method of communicating truth. Countless studies prove that online learning is effective. What seems to make learning effective is not whether it is a traditional or file classroom. The student's attitude toward learning (is he eager and willing to be taught?), as well as the teacher's attitude toward teaching (is he a competent communicator and modeler of truth?),  have a much greater impact on the effectiveness of a course.
Our purpose in evaluating these myths is not to defend our cause but to get you excited about the potential for distance education and how God is using it to reach others for Christ and train up the next generation of Christian workers. To God be the
glory, great things He has done!
"Online
learning is not needed within
seminary education", is the 5th
myth of distance learning. |
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