Pickwick Publications just released my first book. Glassroom Learning: Virtual Culture and Online Pastoral Education is my reworked PhD dissertation in which I invite theological educators to consider the effects of technology on human formation when educating using Web-based systems.
Here's a fuller description:
Christian higher education institutions across North America are
experimenting with radical shifts in educational content and delivery.
Cyber education is becoming a common supplement or replacement for
embodied learning, especially since the global coronavirus pandemic.
Most theological educators have embraced the shift online, finding ways
to leverage technology to enhance teaching; very few consider how
technology itself impacts theological students, particularly those being
educated for pastoral ministry. What effect do shifts toward online
courses have on those enrolled in programs of pastoral formation? Are
future ordinands being adequately trained? When developed well,
Web-based learning can strengthen intellectual virtues. However, it can
also inhibit character virtue formation and self-differentiation.
Internet usage has been shown to negatively affect social well-being,
resulting in higher rates of anxiety, depression, and isolation in
students; furthermore, it alters behavior, making learners more
distracted, less empathetic, and less able to concentrate and
contemplate. Theological schools should, therefore, articulate clearer
standards for student formation and strengthen aspects of embodied
learning to prepare clergy for ministry in an increasingly complex
church and world.
If you want a copy there are a couple of good options:
Order directly through the publisher before October 1, 2023. (Tip: you can get 40% off by using the coupon code "Glassroom"). Here's a link: https://wipfandstock.com/9781666758498/glassroom-learning/
You can also get a copy through Amazon.ca or wherever you purchase you books.
