The Formational Experiences of On-campus and Theological Distance Education Students

Abstract

Theological distance education is frequently criticised on the grounds that it is not formationally equivalent to on-campus provision. This study presents the findings of primary research into the formational experiences of ten on-campus and ten distance education students studying the same undergraduate theology or ministry degree programme at Laidlaw College, a theological education provider in New Zealand. Analysis of interviews finds clear evidence of formational activity and transformative learning across both student groups. Distance respondents had stronger ecclesial connections than on-campus ones, and an equivalent transformative experience. Findings suggest that the context of church fellowship provides a suitable formational context for theological distance education.

Keywords:

• comparison study
• distance education
• spiritual formation
• transformative learning

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mark Nichols

Mark Nichols was in the employ of Laidlaw College at the time this study was undertaken. He is an advocate of online distance theological education, and recently completed his doctoral studies with the University of Otago, investigating the spiritual formation experiences of distance theological education students.