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Principles for Effective Asynchronous Online Instruction in Religious Studies
Author(s) -
McGuire Beverley
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
teaching theology and religion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.165
H-Index - 11
eISSN - 1467-9647
pISSN - 1368-4868
DOI - 10.1111/teth.12363
Subject(s) - asynchronous communication , structuring , constructive , computer science , online learning , asynchronous learning , chunking (psychology) , field (mathematics) , online discussion , online teaching , mathematics education , multimedia , teaching method , psychology , world wide web , cooperative learning , synchronous learning , process (computing) , artificial intelligence , pure mathematics , economics , operating system , computer network , mathematics , finance
Abstract Asynchronous online instruction has become increasingly popular in the field of religious studies. However, despite voluminous research on online learning in general and numerous articles on online theological instruction, there has been little discussion of how to effectively design and deliver online undergraduate courses in religious studies. Drawing on recent research, experiences teaching and learning online, and interviews with colleagues, this paper discusses key principles of effective online instruction. It recommends instructors focus on humanizing their course website, “chunking” their course content, making their approach to the study of religion clear, structuring and monitoring online discussions, prioritizing prompt and constructive feedback, and making course material relevant to learners.