Article 3- “Information Technology in Seminaries”

Raymond B. Williams published his article “Information Technologies in Seminaries” in The Christian Century in 2001.  Writing from the perspective of a religion professor, he offers some interesting insights into new technology that can be incorporated into education.  Over time education styles have radically changed; where students once populated libraries, read books from cover to cover to gather information and were educated mainly by teachers and professors, students now have the vast resources available on the internet.  In order to keep up with society, Williams points out that schools can not simply ignore the “white elephant” that is technology.  Instead, it is necessary to embrace it and enjoy the benefits it has to offer. 

New technology can create a dilemma for theological education, though, because it diminishes key parts of a student’s educational experience.  Some schools are expanding via the internet, allowing students to take classes without physically being in a classroom with a professor and other students.  Williams wisely points out that “many schools want to emphasize close interpersonal relationships with faculty mentors and student peers as part of formation for ministry. It is difficult enough to find time for these relationships on a full-time, residential campus. How will students do this from a distance?”.  Particularly for students pursuing ministry, being able to develop relationships with other people is a vital part of their education that seminaries can not let technology eliminate. 

Even though technology can cause problems when it is embraced, it also can not be ignored because that will cause even more difficulties.  Children are now growing up with the internet by their side.  Mainstream teachers are adapting by using PowerPoint presentations to teach, assigning homework online, and teaching children how to use the internet for research.  Due to children having this constant exposure, technology must be adapted by seminaries if they want to continue to resonate with young students. 

There are currently many amazing religious resources available on the internet.  For instance, religious literature is being digitalized and made available on CD-ROMs and the internet, religious guides for research are online, and seminaries are providing clergy the ability to engage in lifelong learning opportunities.  Clearly the internet must be embraced by religious leaders because it has become an integral part of society and it has the ability to provide vast resources to millions of people.

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