CLS makes distance education possible by adding video conference capability to some regularly scheduled Master of Divinity classes. Our venture into distance education is a blended delivery format; each class is taught in the traditional manner with in-class Master of Divinity and Open Studies students, but also makes use of Zoom (video conference capability) to share live lectures with distant students. Both on-campus and distant students use Populi(course management system) to share documents and for asynchronous collaboration.

Admission

Distance education is a delivery mode, not a program. 

Prospective students desiring to take part in CLS courses from a distance normally apply to the Open Studies program. Open Studies students take academic courses for credit, and are normally on a non-pastoral track. Courses completed in Open Studies may be subsequently applied to a degree, but admission to this program does not guarantee admissibility to a Master's program.

Registered students receive login instructions for Populi and Zoom from the Registrar. All other course instructions are available through Moodle.

Extension by Distance

Some Extension activities sponsored by CLS will be available through the video conferencing technology of ZOOM.
Participants connect to the live events using their computer and internet connection.

Academic Student System

The academic student system is required for Open Studies students registered in courses from a distance.  These courses require direct interaction between the student and teacher via interactive video.  All students participating in this mode of study are required to use a webcam and a headset. This enables our software to share full motion video of the student's face with all those attending class.  All class members can speak to each other and hear what is said through the headset.

Components List:

• Computer - A fairly recent computer is advised. It can be either a desktop or a laptop.  A system purchased within the last three or four years is best although sometimes older systems will work.  PC, Mac, and Linux are all acceptable choices.

• Webcam

• Headset - We recommend a USB style head set with a boom mic that pivots around in front of your face.  It is a matter of personal choice whether single or double ear phones are desired.

• Software - Any current web browser should work, especially Firefox, Chrome, or Safari.

Basic/Extension Student System

The basic/extension student system is the simplest system and is best used for a student attending extension activities from home.  This is primarily used for the non-credit courses and other events where students/participants interact with the presenter using the online chat facility (similar to instant messaging), or simply watch the live event as it takes place.  It is really no more than a home computer connected to a broad band connection such as DSL or Cable.  If you can watch and listen to YouTube videos then the system you have will serve as a "Basic/Extension Student System" and your Internet connection is adequate.

Components List:

• Computer - A fairly recent computer is advised. It can be either a desktop or a laptop.  A system purchased within the last three or four years is best although sometimes older system will work.  PC, Mac, and Linux are all acceptable choices for operating systems.

• Sound - Normal computer speakers or earphones will work for this.

• Software - Any current web browser should work, especially Firefox, Chrome, or Safari.