Mark A. Maddix

Books designed specifically for Christian educators are not as plentiful as they once were, particularly when it comes to introductions. This introduction is really more of a theories approach than an overview as many others are. The authors correctly state Christian educators must be students of both theology and the social sciences; however, their book tends to rely more heavily on the social sciences than on theology. The authors illustrated the ignorance of today's generation in Biblical knowledge, yet their approach still relies more heavily on application of Biblical truths than on imparting the truths to them. The authors never really delved into the methodologies to be used in Christian education. It is my observation that in our attempt to make Christian education "less boring" for students, we created learning experiences more memorable for the activity than for the truth it sought to impart. While I don't advocate a return to reading a lesson and answering questions based upon it, I do believe we need to focus more on teaching the Bible and creating informed students who hide the Word of God in their hearts, particularly as we see increasing intolerance for Biblical worldviews in our society. We need to address the problem of Biblical illiteracy in the church. Opportunities for service need to exist, but we need to make sure we are equipping those who are charged with making disciples. This review is based on an advance review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes. I should also disclose one of the authors is a friend of mine from years ago.… (más)

In many ways, surfing is a good metaphor for navigating the turbulent waters of e-learning in Christian Higher Education. E-learning requires having the right equipment, knowing the right processes and proceduires, and developing the right skills through continual practice. Some teachers and administrators develop e-learning courses and programs without developing the appropriate infrastructures to support e-learning courses. The result is frustrated strudens and teachers. Effective e-learning requires knowledge and skills in educational theories and practices.… (más)

The Christian Higher Education landscape is changing with the development of online courses and programs. Facualty and administrators are struggling with developing effective learning in an online formate. One of the ways effective learning and social interaction can be developed is through onling learning communities. The article provides a definition and rationale for online learning communities and best practices gained from the precedent literature and experience in teaching and developing online programs.… (más)