The Akadameia as Paradigm for Online Community in Theological Distance Education

Abstract

Discussion in theological education literature associated with the use of online technologies is caught up in concerns related to the efficacy of online community with the on-campus seminary experience. Terminology is also inconsistent, and unchallenged assumptions make progress in research and practice difficult. Despite this, many examples of online distance-only theological education are emerging. Online theological distance education (OTDE) is emerging as a major form of theological education. Considering the complementary role of theological education within the church and drawing from primary research data investigating the spiritual formation experiences of distance theological education students making use of online tools, this article suggests that OTDE prioritise the requirements of the academy. Adopting the perspective of akademeia (Greek: the ‘academy’) makes it possible for online theological education providers to deliberately educate in ways complementary to the ministry and formational relationships students already have within the church. Critical to understanding the relevance of community to theological study is the distinction between the ekklesia as community, and the akademeia as community. The term ‘allēlon of dialogia’ (Greek: ‘one-anothering’ of ideas) is introduced as a means of describing the form of community most appropriate to theological education. Adopting the perspective of the akademeia serves to legitimise istance theological education, which is frequently criticised on the grounds that it cannot be as formative as seminary-based theological education.