In an era, where online and distance theological education is rapidly expanding, how can we make learning more interactive, engaging, and transformational? Traditional lecture-based models often fall short in fostering deep student engagement and spiritual formation. This session on “Interactive Learning” explores how learning tasks, social contexts, and digital tools can be intentionally designed to enhance theological education. The session also includes group discussion questions, making it ideal for collaborative reflection or personal study.

Description

Theological education is not just about delivering content—it’s about active learning, student formation, and shaping digital learning environments that foster community and growth. This session provides theological educators with insights on how to design interactive learning experiences in both online and in-person settings.

Key discussions include:

• Understanding the Distance/Online Theological Education Competence Framework and its relevance to student learning.
• Designing effective learning tasks and assessments that encourage deep engagement.
• Creating learning experiences that contribute to student formation.
• Shaping social contexts in online and distance learning to support spiritual and intellectual growth.
• Developing ‘presence’ in digital learning spaces—how educators can foster engagement even in virtual settings.
• How to design and structure digital or virtual learning spaces for better interaction.
• Selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) and shaping digital platforms to enhance theological education.
• Choosing appropriate tech tools and apps to facilitate interactive learning.

This session is designed to be both practical and reflective, encouraging educators to watch the course and engage with the discussion questions individually or as a group.

Outcomes

By the end of this session, theological educators will:

1. Understand the Distance/Online Theological Education Competence Framework and its application.
2. Design learning tasks and assessments that actively engage students.
3. Develop strategies for shaping social and virtual learning contexts that support student formation.
4. Enhance their ability to create a strong presence in digital and online spaces.
5. Analyze different digital platforms and LMS options to optimize theological education.
6. Select and implement appropriate technology tools and apps for interactive and engaging learning experiences.

Reflect and discuss key questions either individually or in groups, fostering deeper insights into interactive learning.