The pandemic changed how technology is used in a number of ways. Digital transformation has become increasingly relevant. Any reliance on the internet has also grown.
Because of isolation and social restrictions, the internet became a key tool for communication after Covid hit. Free messaging services saw a surge in users, and food delivery services became swamped.
E-commerce was clearly a big winner during those dark times, but education also had to adapt to technology. According to one study, 84 percent of undergraduates had at least one of their lessons moved online during 2020.
As the benefits of online learning became clearer, educators started to broaden the subjects taught. Now, on-demand theology training has arrived.
What actually is theology training on demand?
As a fan of technology, you will be fully versed with the phrase ‘on demand’. This refers to video, gaming, or any content that can be accessed as necessary, or on demand.
On-demand theology training uses the same principle. It allows students to access learning materials at any time they wish through the internet. A visit to theosu.ca reveals a large collection of courses for theology students available 24/7. And it has been described as the Netflix of theological courses.
Theology training on demand consists of teachings broken down into easily digestible courses in a range of formats. Hot topics and other discussions will be included.
Expect to see educational resources such as:
- The Basics of Theology, philosophy, and History
- The chance to deep dive into the books of the Bible
- Gain a clearer understanding of God’s word
- Learn about the Bible in context
- Read more about the heroes of the Bible
- Hear arguments from multiple sides
This last point is very important. Good online theology classes will offer healthy debate and challenge ideas. It is through these challenges that confidence in faith grows as a better understanding of God occurs.
Why supply theology training on demand?
To fully understand why theology students would benefit from on-demand services, you would need to look at all the gains. This you can do a little further down the article. However, aside from the convenience, there are solid reasons why technology benefits theology students.
Firstly, the global Christian population is spread widely. With over 2 billion Christians on the planet, the internet is the obvious tool for effective reach. Advances in broadband for even the remotest areas are improving, and as long as WiFi access is available, theology classes can be viewed.
Then, there is the way modern life is lived. The cost of living has forced many into taking a second job to pay the bills. People might dearly like to attend church more often. They may also want to study theology. But, modern life has left them with neither the time nor the money to do so.
On-demand services have risen to cater to the needs of time-strapped individuals. And online theology classes allow students to study as and when it suits them.
What are the gains from using technology to open up theology training?
Theology training involves ancient scriptures and teaching the words of the Bible but in context. Despite the Bible being thousands of years old, theology professors understand how important technology can be in education.
Audience reach is, as previously mentioned, a big plus of using the Internet. But, it works both ways. Educators and academics can help teach theology to far-off students, and people in far-flung locations can access on-demand materials.
There are about 6.84 billion smartphones in the world. While not everyone can access the internet, it is the best tool available for global reach. The benefits of using modern tech for theology training include the following.
Total convenience for teachers and students
Tutors and professors can pre-record lectures and informative videos for on-demand use. Online tutors are limited by the hours of the day when teaching students. But, on-demand classes can be accessed by thousands of people at once.
And the convenience of choosing when and where to access theology classes is vital to busy students. The information provided on educational sites in this way benefits many different people from pastors to students, to regular people who want to understand their faith a little more.
The internet allows diversity
On-demand streaming content doesn’t allow for interaction in the way classrooms do. However, the internet does increase diversity. A student could access theology classes from around the world and get different perspectives from different Christian teachers.
On-demand classes may be more affordable
Attending a private religious school may not be convenient, or within budget for many. Online theology studies may represent a more affordable method of understanding the Bible.
With the cost of fuel or public transport, a home streaming service may pay for itself.
Technology makes education accessible
More than 92 percent of Americans have broadband access. Some countries even have free internet for residents. The internet is full of educational resources that can be accessed easily.
Previously, religious education was spread by missionaries and traveling pastors. Reliance on this method meant that Christianity spread slowly in some parts of the world. Technology allows education of all sorts to be accessed online at will.
Over 750 million people use English as a second language. Many of these people supplemented their education with online lessons.
Assists in further education
For those people who wish to enter seminary education, or want to use theology in their career, online theology studies will help.
Are online teaching methods legitimate?
With many digital nomads roaming the world teaching ESL, some may question the legitimacy of online tutors. However, online studying is taking over and is definitely here to stay.
While anyone can set themselves up to teach online, only those that are qualified and have a true grasp of their subject matter will survive. Theological courses and Bible colleges online use academics who are well-versed in scripture.
Typically, you could expect an online Bible college to use professors of theology, Ph.D. holders, and people who work in the community such as pastors or ministers.
Can theology training be useful in real life?
The benefits of gaining a second language or taking extra math lessons might be clear. But, to some, theology studies may appear a waste of time. However, theology training can be put to great use in real, everyday life.
Religious beliefs can help guide people through troublesome times. Social workers and law enforcement have to deal with difficult situations which would try anyone. A thorough understanding of the Bible helps some people see a way through difficult moments in life.
But, anyone could benefit from Bible studies in general. Theology is used by many to take the right path through life and to assist in the community. Through theology, a person will gain a better understanding of the world, and other people’s religious beliefs.
What technology is used to bring theology studies online?
The importance of technology in education cannot be called into question. With millions of students gaining from online resources and classes, technology is clearly of benefit.
Theology studies are being provided through on-demand platforms in a similar way to Netflix. And the technology to complement this is already in place.
Hardware such as laptops and mobile tablets are widespread, as are phones. And the materials for theology training are varied. Mobile apps are easily accessible, and there are interviews and videos on YouTube too.
Anyone interested in furthering their education on any subject whether religious or not, will find plenty of materials online.
Summary
Theology training on demand is a thoroughly modern way of teaching an ancient discipline. The internet allows theology students to grasp the words of the Bible from academics who will deliver them in context.
With access to degree-level education, It is clear that online theology training is a legitimate way to learn. Quality on-demand education of any type is to be applauded, especially when it is accessible and affordable.
