TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT AND VIRTUAL COURSE IMPROVEMENTS

Reformed Theological Seminary will provide training to more students as new technologies and media are utilized for theological education. By using current technologies we are able to bring new efficiency, more learning activities and increased outreach to the RTS global student body.

To better serve Virtual Campus students and to enhance learning, we plan to implement new technology advances in online learning, using online interactive tutorials as part of course instruction. The online tutorials are video based and allow students to select learning support in the areas of their greatest need or interest.  Course development costs are $200,000 for each course interactive tutorial.

The use of technology has increased exponentially over the past decade, influencing the development and advancement of almost every modern convenience we enjoy. At our fingertips is exhaustive information on any subject, the ability to purchase innumerable products or services without leaving the comfort of home, and the instant availability of multiple entertainment and learning opportunities.

With this in mind, the effective use of technology is critical for RTS to grow as a multiple-campus institution. Students can be better served without great increase in staff expense by using central databases and contemporary enterprise solutions. And there is an ongoing cost over time to stay abreast of technological developments. Servers, desktop machines and other equipment must be updated as the industry develops constantly improved communication processes.

The “smart classroom” of the future will help faculty be more effective teaching the timeless truths of God’s Word. They will use a variety of teaching tools; audio, video and computer modes. Also, for distributed learning in particular, classrooms must have the adaptability to be appealing studios with great sound and clear images. Preparations must be made for students with laptops and MP3 players who understand better by participating in more interactive modes for learning. Research has shown that the development of instructional media in educational programs at the college/university level provide more effective learning by students.

Additionally, distance-education programs provide training for students unable to attend residential campuses, making geographical limitations to pursuing a degree nonexistent. The RTS Virtual Campus is the first fully accredited seminary graduate-degree program in which 90% of the program can be completed by distance education. Registrations continue to grow 20 percent or more per year. New online courses are planned, including live Web conferencing of RTS classes. Virtual Campus graduates are already beginning ministries in their communities, in local churches and on the mission field.

Additional resources will help RTS to use technology more effectively, both instructionally and administratively. The campaign will fund “smart classrooms,” instructional media labs, additional Web-based resources and wireless technology. It will also provide for more efficient educational administration tools to ensure our ability to serve third-millennium students. The Virtual Campus will require expanded technical capabilities to serve the rapidly growing number of students not just stateside but especially abroad, where churches are springing up even in the midst of the threat of terror and persecution. Future international church leaders must receive appropriate theological training.