Throughout the last eight years, I have invested a considerable amount of time in investigating the availability of distance-based theological degrees through overseas institutions. Throughout this time, my intent never has been to become a distance learning “specialist,” or to spend my life as a resident of a distance learning ghetto (i.e., where “members of some minority group live, or to which they are restricted as by economic pressure or social discrimination”—Webster). Rather, my hope has been to utilize DL as a means to gain the qualifications necessary for advancement as a participant in my academic discipline. For some time, I have known this to mean that I eventually would need to redirect my energies away from matters of distance learning in order to focus on researching/writing/networking/lecturing as a practical theologian. This focus upon distance learning has served its purpose in my life; recently, as I complete my MTh and prepare to commence DTh research, I have been sensing that the time is drawing near for me to emigrate from the distance learning community. However, throughout these eight years, I have collected a broad range of information about distance learning programs overseas. I have not been comfortable with the thought of merely discarding or forgetting about this information. Rather, I’ve wanted to do something with it that would benefit other prospective students. Toward this end, in recent months, I have been working with Jason Baker to expand his website to encompass international programs. He recently updated his site to incorporate many of these programs. When all is said and done, approximately 20 more schools will be added before the list is complete. The opportunity to share this information in this format has been very cathartic for me; it has enabled me to get it “out of my system” in a manner that benefits others. Now, I feel liberated to focus upon other things in which I desire to be investing myself. In a very real way, as the distance learning “leg” of my journey reaches its conclusion, I consider this list to be my distance learning “final project.” I want to say thanks to all those of you who have enriched this leg of my journey through your interaction here. It has been an honour to grow together in community with you here. Blessings! Baker’s International Listings (More on the way!!): http://www.gospelcom.net/bakersguide/international.php Cory Seibel
Thanks Thanks for the valuable information. You have always provided thoughtful contributions in the past, so I hope you will continue dropping by the board occasionally. Enjoy your doctoral studies! Dave
Cory, We hope that you will continue with the newsgroup. Those N. Dak. winters should allow for some time. I must admit that partly due to your posts and the others I decided to do some theology education and it is not my speciality . Noetheless I am into my 2nd course for the Graduate Certificate in Arts (Theology) at the Australian Catholic University. When complete I may think about the M.A. John
John, I knew the theology bug would bite you sooner or later. What did you see out there during all the star gazing you had to do for the MA in Astronomy?
Thanks Cory, I am "in that place" where I am just about to step out into the DL world, moving towards a PhD in theology. I appreciate the work you have done greatly.
Thanks DG1, John, Christopher: Thanks for your kind words. I do believe that I will continue to drop by here periodically. May each of you continue to experience rich blessings in your own learning endeavours! Cory Seibel
I believe it was Barclay, in his work "The Apostles Creed," who told the story of the astronomer who invited his minister to study with him because the minister's God was too small. Ah, yes, the wonders of the universe...
