Online Courses

About e-Learning

Online courses offer six weeks of engaged dialogue between course participants and an experienced instructor. Technical support is available by telephone (toll-free) throughout each course.

Learning is self-directed and interactive. The online learning environment offers greater flexibility, creativity and comfort than the traditional classroom. Course participants log on to the course website and work on a particular unit at their leisure during the week but move ahead to the next course unit with the group at the beginning of each week.

Courses typically require about five hours of work each week. To enhance the learning experience, the Elders’ Institute limits registration.

Who Takes Online Courses?

Anyone who is motivated and demonstrates what John Calvin described as “a teachable spirit” can benefit from e-learning.

Although most course participants never meet face to face, they are able to build a Christian learning community of shared wisdom and experience.

Online courses enhance participation of all students. Traditional classroom teaching often inhibits learning for students who do not respond to lecture teaching styles, domination of discussions by a handful of students or time limitations. Online courses appeal to the quiet learners, who can take their time to think through new ideas before posting their assignments and responses to discussions. At the same time, online learning limits opportunities for extroverted students to dominate discussions.

Log On Anywhere, Anytime

Online courses are ideal for ruling elders and church leaders who live in communities that do not have easy access to continuing education resources, courses or materials. Elders’ Institute course participants have logged on from their homes and offices across Canada, the US, New Zealand, Britain and Australia.

Cost

The fee for Elders’ Institute courses is $100 per person. Required reading materials are typically included in the course fee. The Elders’ Institute offers a group discount – six people from the same congregation can register for the price of five. Bursaries are available.

Also read: Online Course Details • What Does it Take to Take a Course?