Introduction

The Union's current distance education capabilities are being expanded to make theological and pastoral education more available beyond its physical location in Washington.  Distance education, sometimes referred to as "on-line" or "off-site", provides such an opportunity in different forms, particularly with the capability offered by internet-based education software.  The software used by the Union is "Blackboard" that has a number of technology features, their use depending upon the desires of the faculty instructor and the needs of the students.  This software is used for course instruction in different methods that require a brief definition because they have importance for the student's decision on registration.  The methods used are: asynchronous, synchronous and hybrid and are defined as follows:

• Asynchronous is the method in which the instruction is presented in a form that does not require off-site students to be connected for a specific period of time.
  
  
• Synchronous is the method in which the instructor defines specific day(s) and times in which the off-site students must be connected and responsive.
  
  
• Hybrid is the method in which the instructor gives classes that require some portion of the course on-site in the campus classroom in combination with either asynchronous or synchronous sessions off-site.

The semester schedule includes these terms to assist the student in planning his/her course registration.

First-time Blackboard Users

The following page links provide helpful information about using Blackboard for courses taught using this technology

• Trial Use
• Computer Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions

Implementation

The Union currently offers these academic programs that specifically incorporate the distance education approach to study:

• Doctor of Ministry in Christian Spirituality that is a hybrid in that it uses both distance and on-site methods.
  
• Graduate Certificate in Franciscan Theology and Spirituality is exclusively an off-site program with no on-campus classroom attendance required.
• Graduate Certificate in Carmelite Studies that is currently offered by the Carmelite Institute and awarded by the Union. NOTE: The delivery method is currently through correspondence.

Other Union courses are also offered using "Blackboard" software and are accepted in our other academic degree and certificate programs.

Special Operating Instructions for Students

Click here for special guidance when taking courses using the distance education methodology.

 

Blackboard Trial

Click here for Blackboard Trial Demonstration

Click here for Blackboard Trial Login Credentials

For Information Contact:

Morgan Alexander
malexander@wtu.edu