CATALOG  FOR  LEARN 
© Copyright 2007 by LEARN

 

LEARN  Table of Contents

LEARN’s Vision, Mission, Methods

LEARN’s Plan

LEARN’ Process For Structured Distance Learning

Options For Study

Self-directed independent study, at no charge

Structured distance learning

Programs At LEARN

Biblical Studies Program

Christian Evidences Program

Evidence module series on the Bible and science

Bible and science module descriptions

Academic Procedures

Taking quizzes

Contacts with LEARN

Recording credit

Transfer credit

Academic Calendar

For full-quarter courses

For modules

Fee Structure

Policies at LEARN

Course Grading

Faculty

 

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LEARN’s  Vision, Mission, Methods

 

Vision

We are working to provide world-wide access to web based, Biblically-accurate material and classes. Classes will be developed and taught by teachers and preachers who love and honor God’s Word and have a passion to teach others.  Our desire is that believers might be equipped to build up the Body of Christ and take the good news of Jesus Christ to the world.

 

Mission

Our mission is to provide Biblically accurate classes and material that will inform, inspire, and equip believers worldwide through web based learning.

 

Methods

LEARN’s methods are to go through the open door of opportunity offered by the Internet and reach out towards hundreds of millions of available computers to present college level instruction world-wide by two separate methods:  a) Distance Learning ( DL ), and   b) self-directed study of specific topics apart from courses and a curriculum.
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LEARN’s  Plan To Accomplish This Vision, Mission, And Method

 

A virtual college – LEARN 

To bring together dispersed Bible scholars/teachers, students, and committed servants into a virtual ( cyber ) college  -- LEARN, independent of schedule or place. LEARN is a non-profit organization incorporated in Iowa, USA.

To operate this virtual organization with all the advantages of such.  These advantages include contributions from distributed faculty, staff, and supporters as needed, while minimizing the need for gaining and maintaining centralized “bricks and mortar”.

Advantages to students include flexibility in schedule for study, and the opportunity of a low-cost Bible-based college education that is open to all world-wide who can communicate by computers and the Internet using English.

 

Start with delivery in English

English is the dominant language in computer technology and what our initial faculty uses.

Students whose ability in written English is limited are strongly advised to improve those skills as soon as possible, since all courses will degrade the course grade for poorly written English.  Many no-charge DL courses in English grammar and composition are available on the Internet, including English as a second language.

Access and enrollment are open to all without discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, ethnicity, or national origin.

 

An Internet web-site  learntruth.net  for LEARN

offering many options for study, as described below.

 

This catalog, available only at its web-site

Consult it for general information on LEARN. 

 

Progressive roll-out

While the Internet service is stable, and standard software will be used, any new enterprise will inevitably reveal problems in delivery. Therefore our implementation will be in stages of progressive sophistication/complexity.

This first year, January through September, 2007, rolls out a pilot (“beta version”) of LEARN. This is to refine the process while the courses, service, and student loading are more limited. It begins with two lower-division courses in the Winter Quarter, with other courses, services, and options added later.

 

An Emphasis on Bible truths

LEARN’S courses are based on the Bible. The Bible is our only written statement of faith.  We have no creeds beyond it.

 

A Relationship to the Midwestern School of Evangelism (MSE)

MSE is a Bible college started by Donald G. Hunt, Burton Barber, and James McMorrow in 1947, with extensive courses.  Among its many graduates are Victor Knowles, George Faull, Vaughn Elliott, Dr. Dave McSpadden, Don Hunt Jr., Bill Paul, and Ed DeVries. MSE offers its own courses, programs, curricula, and bachelor’s degrees.

LEARN is a partner with MSE.  LEARN builds on the expertise and course set of MSE, but adds new courses, methodology, curricula, and teachers.

LEARN is legally incorporated as a separate entity from MSE.  LEARN’s credits, on approval, may be transferred to MSE or other colleges for final courses and where students reside to earn their bachelor’s degrees. LEARN offers certificates, but no bachelor’s degrees.

 

LEARN incorporates, and upgrades, the present successful Midwestern Correspondence School.

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LEARN’s Process For Structured Distance Learning

 

Delivery technology

There are many delivery processes within the broad category of distance learning. LEARN’s process is classified as “Asynchronous Web-Based Instruction”.   This means the delivery of subject matter is communicated over the Internet in primarily one direction, from instructor to student. However, effort is made to encourage interaction in a variety of ways: Enrolled students can e-mail with the instructor, take electronic quizzes, and get technical support. Also, enrolled students in some courses/modules are required to take part in group discussions on-line, but not in real-time.  These groups provide a sense of community, interactions and group dynamics that stimulates the learning process.

LEARN’s process does not require a high communication speed, although with a dial-up (slow speed) Internet connection the rate at which any video, audio, or slides with graphics, are provided is slow. Students with older computers with only dial-up Internet service  may elect to study structured courses without video or audio.

 

For more recommendations on computers,

see on this web-site under “No-charge study topics”  “Recommended computer system features”.

 

Purchasing textbooks

Independent of LEARN, students obtain textbooks, study guides, reference works, and DVDs, plus rental DVDs, by any process. The Voice of Evangelism carries some of these materials, and its offerings are described in its on-line bookstore  voiceofevangelism.com 

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Many Options For Study

 

To serve diverse student needs

LEARN offers many options for study; to meet the many different need of students.  These options differ in structure, duration, levels, student needs, and support.

 

Both full-quarter and modular courses

Both full-quarter and modular (four week) courses are offered. LEARN’s modules are scheduled so that three successive modules, each of four weeks, can be offered without over-lap within a 12 week quarter.

In web-based modular instruction as used by LEARN,

“content and testing can be integrated with a Learning Management

Systems (LMS) and “modularized” into small units of instruction

suitable for assembly and reassembly into a variety of courses.”

 

Packaging of some topics into one-unit modules has these advantages:

Modules accommodate those of different backgrounds and motivations. It allows the student to pick a particular topic for study more restrictively than in some arbitrary three unit package. 

It allows more flexibility in time and topic to begin studies.

The transfer of credit is simplified, as modules can more easily fit into a particular destination college’s three unit package of similar topics.

 

No-charge, self-directed, independent (unstructured) topics.

There are three categories of no-charge, self-directed, non-structured, independent topics, all of which are available directly on the LEARN web-site.

The first kind of self-directed independent topics provides elaboration on what this catalog says regarding procedures for interaction with LEARN. This includes “read me first”, how to enroll, how to enroll, how to take required quizzes, what are recommended computer system features, Internet options, how to make payments electronically, technical support, etc.   

The second kind of topic is for no-charge study regarding DL in general.  See the separate topic “Help about distance learning in general” available on this web-site.

The third kind of no-charge self-directed independent topics is for Biblical studies that are provided separately on the web-site from LEARN’s  DL-structured courses. This includes studies and sermons from the faculty. These are listed along with this catalog on the no-charge section of the LEARN web-site.

One example of these no-charge Biblical studies are extensive notes, PowerPoint files, and supplemental studies for a local or congregational leadership training program developed and used at the Florin Bible Institute. These could be used alone, or as the first part of a more extensive local program which adds LEARN structured courses for either audit ( in LEARN lower-division course only ), or for credit (lower-division or advanced).

 

LEARN’s structured courses

LEARN’s structured courses/modules all use Distance Learning (DL ), and are listed below (under two programs for the pilot phase), in this catalog, although students can select courses without a program goal.

In some structured courses, the student has the option of streaming videos or voice with lectures, although those using older computers with dial-up connections may elect to receive lectures without video or voice-over so as to reduce the connect time.

Structured courses or modules proceed through a series of classes/lessons called lectures. 

These courses/modules come classified by level into lower division and advanced. Advanced courses or modules are only available to enrollees.

 

Lower division courses

Lower division courses are less challenging and provide a foundation upon which advanced courses build. They carry course numbers below 100, such as Ev31 and Ev31a.

Each lower-division structured course or module has two distinct versions, for either auditors or enrollees. The subject content is similar in either version, but they differ substantially in support and interaction.

 

Auditing lower division courses/modules

Lower division audit courses or modules are available at all times, and without charge. Each offers a set of PowerPoint files, which is to be downloaded and stored.  Later it is opened for study off-line.  In addition, some audit courses or modules will provide the option of streaming video or audio lectures.

Students merely log-in so that their e-mail addresses can be validated and communications can be sent to them.

No-charge auditing meets the needs of a variety of students, including:  a) church leaders who do not need credits, but welcome continued education,  b) students that welcome the opportunity for college level study without course expense.

Also, one person can serve as a facilitator for a group. Groups might include: c) those in a church class where the course lectures are presented on a projector by a local tutor who leads discussion,  and  d) a group of students in foreign training programs who gain additional faculty and courses at no expense.

A student’s transcript will not show audited courses/modules.

Auditing involves no other contact or support from the  course/module and the instructor, except students could decide to upgrade to enrollment.

 

Enrolled courses/modules

The enrolled version of courses/modules are only offered within a calendar window, one quarter for courses, four weeks for modules.

LEARN’s enrollment process includes a fee paid in full in advance for each course or module.

Enrollment entitles the enrollee to take part in group discussions (“Chat Live”) on-line, submit homework, to have their required essays/term papers graded, to earn course grades, to be provided tech support, and for messaging to be permitted with the Instructor or Reader by means which each course specifies, but includes e-mail.

Instructors/Readers will interact only with enrollees.

The Instructor will declare as a part of a Course Description whether or not there will be gradable quizzes administered as a part of the process of earning a grade for a particular course/module.

Once a course’s requirements are met, the enrolled student is awarded course credit, in quarter units.

During this pilot year, courses/modules will be implemented first for enrollees.  Later, as time permits, the audited versions will be added.

Each lower division course may be enrolled for without first enrolling. Or, after first enrolling, students may change to a enrollment until the last date to enroll.

 

Advanced courses

Advanced courses carry course numbers above 99, such as Ev 204.

All advanced courses require enrollment, with fees paid fully in advance.  There is no process for a formal auditing for advanced courses.  Students who do not need credit may simply enroll for a No-Credit ( P ) grade, and do only the homework and quiz taking as they wish.

Each advanced course requires a set of homework assignments and quizzes/exams.

 

Teaching LEARN courses to a local group

Where possible, the most productive learning will likely occur with a group. Besides the chat room for enrollees, which is a virtual group, there could be local groups, led by a local leader who directs discussions.  This would work well world-wide, where there may be students with limited English proficiency or other local needs.

A larger congregation could host a group. Students from smaller congregations which would not host their own group could travel to one central site to interact.

These groups would likely present the LEARN materials designed for auditors, but could include as well attendance of enrollees for the discussions/interactions. Enrollees could follow up their group meetings with personal homework. The subject matter in LEARN lectures is nearly the same for both auditing and enrolling courses/modules, except specifics regarding support and interaction.

As LEARN’s and a local group’s technology matures, real-time virtual groups will happen.

 

Evangelist and elder Ralph Johnson’s suggestions of how to make distance learning a success:

“I suggest that they be presented in 25 minute blocks, carefully packed, rather than just making videos of someone teaching them in class. The 25 minute blocks break it up into easily managed accreditable chunks which permits another 25 minutes of discussion every hour. They should include some class notes and required reading and testing. 

As much as possible, they should be classes supervised by a local church leader.  This will draw others in and bring the local church into its God given role of committing the word to faithful men [ 2 Tim.2:2 ] --and, I believe, anchors and provides substance and builds interest. The on-line school should work with the local leaders in testing and providing guidance of the class. 

Class learning is generally the most productive.  Few people are self-generated enough to discipline and follow through by themselves.  If supervised classes are not formed it will be mostly a novelty for a while and little productive results will be accomplished. …

I consider this [distance learning] the most important thing of any for the future of our churches.”

LEARN provides the opportunity to do all that Ralph Johnson suggests, although study can be done by single individuals as well.  Each of our lectures is designed to take approximately 25 minutes and provide written notes.  The enrolled versions encourage student responses, have students monitored, and be tested.

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Programs At LEARN

 

A program: core, required courses, and electives

Programs have a curriculum, which specifies the requirements to gain a certificate.  This program curriculum includes the requirements for a core set of courses, a required set of units from a list of program courses, plus electives.

 

These programs meet different needs

These needs include personal needs for growth, or earning a certificate, or compiling most of the units before transferring to a 4-year resident college. There the transfer student would complete residence requirements, earn the confidence and commendation of the faculty, and gain their Bachelor’s degree.

These programs meet the needs of congregations as well. It allows for a wider set of learners and leaders to become better equipped for service and who welcome an opportunity of college-level study that can be pursued at home.

 

Certificate programs in this pilot phase are offered in Biblical Studies, and Christian Evidences. 

Certificate programs in Biblical Studies are based on the courses offered by MSE and their correspondence equivalents.

Later, certificate programs in Theology, Christian Education, Counseling, and Communications will be added.

 

The Certificate Program in Biblical Studies

Introduction

Later versions of this catalog will include details on the whole curriculum and more courses.

This pilot year begins with the three-quarter series on the Unfolded Plan of God, using as a textbook the popular book by Donald G. Hunt..

The Unfolded Plan of God Series

 

Three courses, Th01, Th02, and Th3 

They offer an overview of The Unfolded Plan of God as revealed in the Bible. This meets the needs of several types of students. 

Some students may be looking for a systematic process to uncover the central and wonderful theme of the Bible without getting bogged down at the start with details. 

Other students may be looking for an entry into, and foundation for, four years of Bible study to earn a degree.

Other students may be looking for a Bible survey as a religious elective, who find the typical OT Introduction and NT Introduction courses offered by most Bible colleges or universities to be too technical and on arcane topics.

 

Th01  God Began His Plan

(For enrolled students). God behind the plan.  Beginnings. Sin and its consequences. The Patriarchal era. The great flood.  Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Israel’s Egyptian slavery and deliverance.  The giving of the law at Mount Sinai and it’s contents.  The Tabernacle, it’s construction and purpose. The Leviticus Priesthood, their qualifications and duties.  The Sacrifices required under the Law and their purpose. Three units.

 

Th01a  God Began His Plan

(For auditors). God behind the plan.  Beginnings. Sin and its consequences. The Patriarchal era. The great flood.  Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Israel’s Egyptian slavery, deliverance.  The giving of the law at Mount Sinai and it’s contents.  The Tabernacle, it’s construction and purpose. The Leviticus Priesthood, their qualifications and duties.  The Sacrifices required under the Law and their purpose.

 

Th02  God’s Plan – The Mosaic Covenant

(For enrolled students). The Jewish feasts. Israel’s wanderings and conquests.  Judges and kings. Divided kingdoms. Restoration period. Messianic prophecy. The Messiah is born. Jesus’ ministry. The heart of the gospel. The ascension. The Apostles of Christ. Three units.

 

Th02a  God’s Plan – The Mosaic Covenant

(For auditors). The Jewish feasts. Israel’s wanderings and conquests.  Judges and kings. Divided kingdoms. Restoration period. Messianic prophecy. The Messiah is born. Jesus’ ministry. The heart of the gospel. The ascension. The Apostles of Christ.

 

Th03  God’s Plan – Christ’s New Covenant

(For enrolled students). The church/kingdom. Law and gospel. Salvation. Christian life and worship. Primitive Christianity. Eschatology. Three units.

 

Th03a  God’s Plan – Christ’s New Covenant

(For auditors). The church/kingdom. Law and gospel. Salvation. Christian life and worship. Primitive Christianity. Eschatology.

 

The Certificate Program in Christian Evidences

Categories

Courses will be offered in classical apologetics, anthropology, how we got our Bible, etc. See later versions of this catalog for details.

Also, this pilot year’s certificate program in Christian Evidence offers a new modular science evidence series.

 

Evidence course series on the Bible, science, cosmology, intelligent design, and evolution.

Features of this science evidence series:

This new series is packaged in one unit modules, and offers an overview of the fundamental issues behind current controversies in the overlapping domains of Biblical teaching and science.

It defends a “Christian worldview as the most complete, rational, and accurate representation of all reality.”

 

The intent of science evidence modules

Is to equip the student to cope with the current culture, assume places of service and leadership, and become more than conquerors in conflict with a secular world.

Note this intent is not primarily to make a presentation to students of these controversial topics that is limited to only “the Christian side” or just allow what is theologically safe.  Rather, it is to make, at an introductory college level, students safe for these controversial topics. They are made safe by introducing topics in a safe environment while presenting not only controversial views, but also giving resources and encouragement to develop skills in critical thinking and how to cope with and refute errors in these controversial topics.

 

Expected outcomes in these modules

These modules offer hope to those who have an uneasy co-existence with a dual, compartmentalized worldview of faith on Sunday and acceptance of an atheistic or other non-Christian philosophy on Monday. They can find out how their worldview can be united without denying either their faith or science facts (as distinct from philosophy).

These courses develop skills in critical thinking applicable to all areas of learning and science, such as how to distinguish between scientific fact and science philosophies.

These courses build affirmation and confidence, that God is on your side, including that of your mind, and offer you a route to find for yourself that there need not be, and should not be, a conflict between faith and reason.

 

A modular series on science-related topics meets a variety of students needs.

These modules accommodate those of different backgrounds and motivations. For example, a beginning college student could develop a foundational outlook supporting both faith and learning before studying particular sciences. 

Another beginning college student can be assured of the inspiration of the Bible and yet be encouraged by the Bible to study science.

Also, a physics major can investigate Biblical pronouncements for the Big Bang without taking time to delve into biology.

Also, a person who previously has focused only on evolution can now study the broader picture.

 

One-unit modular courses on science evidences

Ev31  Conflicts Between Christianity and The Secular World

Ev31a  Conflicts Between Christianity and The Secular World (audit version)

Ev32  Faith, Truth, and Learning

Ev32a  Faith, Truth, and Learning (audit version)

Ev33  God, The Bible, And Science

Ev33a  God, The Bible, And Science (audit version)

Ev104  God and Cosmology

Ev105  Creation, the Bible, and The Big Bang

Ev106  Creation and The Mystery of Life 

Ev107  Design or Chance?

Ev108  Icons of Evolution

Ev109  Evolution: The Tide Is Turning

These science evidences modules are independent, without prerequisites, but complement one another.

 

Series Instructor:  Dr. Jerry Dillion

Professor emeritus, California State University, Sacramento

Former Program director, National Science Foundation

Ordained Church of Christ evangelist in 1957,

Author of a book on Evolution, a booklet on the Big Bang, and numerous Biblical studies and sermons.

 

Course Descriptions On The Bible And Science

This series is under development, in the order shown.

Ev31  Conflicts Between Christianity and The Secular World

An introduction to the importance of ideas and philosophies, plus the philosophical conflicts between the secular world and Christianity. Culture wars. Asking and sequencing the right questions. One unit.

 

Ev31a  Conflicts Between Christianity and The Secular World

Version for auditors. An introduction to the importance of ideas and philosophies, plus the philosophical conflicts between the secular world and Christianity. Culture wars. Asking and sequencing the right questions.

 

Ev32 Faith, Truth, and Learning

 The superiority of Christian worldviews to its competitors. Practical tools and skills to integrate Christian knowledge with academic knowledge into a single worldview. One unit.

 

Ev32a Faith, Truth, and Learning

 Version for auditors. The superiority of Christian worldviews to its competitors. Practical tools and skills to integrate Christian knowledge with academic knowledge into a single worldview.

 

Ev33  God, the Bible, and Science

   The Bible’s claims to inspiration and some of its scientific pronouncements. Bible encouragements to study science. One unit.

 

Ev33a  God, the Bible, and Science

Version for auditors.  The Bible’s claims to inspiration and some of its scientific pronouncements. Bible encouragements to study science.

 

Ev104  God and Cosmology

Genesis chapters 1-2, viewed as philosophy, origins, hymn to God, creation history, focus, sequence, methods, purpose, value, as well as science. Unresolved cosmology issues, and the Bible answers. Evidence from cosmology for the existence of a Creator. 1 unit.

 

Ev105  Creation, The Bible, and The Big Bang

The beginning of the cosmos according to the Bible and its harmony with a summary of what cosmologists conclude was the “Big Bang” event (as distinguished from a atheistic comprehensive theory of cosmic evolution). Refutation of an eternal universe and atheism. Expansion of the universe, from the Bible and cosmology. 1 unit.

 

Ev106  Creation and The Mystery of Life

The impossibility of “chemical evolution”. Darwin’s black box. Irreducible complexity of life. The marvel of DNA.  The origin of genetic information. The necessity of design to produce a living cell.  One unit.

 

Ev107  Design or Chance?

Macroevolution as philosophy rather than science. A survey of the origin-of-life controversy.  The overwhelming evidence of design in the universe. Design as evidence of a creator. Summary, history, assessment, and future of the Intelligent Design movement.  One unit.

 

Ev108 Icons of Evolution

History of frauds and failures used to support macroevolution. Rebuttals of the most common alleged “proofs” of macroevolution, including Galapagos Islands finches, comparative anatomy, DNA similarity, and the tree of life. The Cambrian Era“ explosion, where new major body plans appeared. One unit.  

 

Ev109 Evolution:  The Tide Is Turning

The failure for paleontology, since Darwin, to uncover the host of missing links. Neo-Darwinism. Dissention within the ranks of evolutionists. The increased number world-wide of scholars rejecting macroevolution. Future projections. Why do evolutionists still cling to their claims?  One unit.

 

Enrollment

Enroll separately for each course/module

The student submits electronically a enrollment application packet of two parts:   a) filling out a enrollment application form available on the LEARN web-site, and   b) submitting the entire enrollment fee of $30 per quarter unit -- $90 for a three unit course -- in advance. This fee may be paid on-line through PayPal, or by surface mailing a check or money order to:  LEARN,  P.O. Box 903, Ottumwa, IA 52501, Attention Registrar.  

 

After enrollment

LEARN uses special DL computer software. 

This software will deliver lectures, assignments, and for most courses, quizzes/exams. Reading assignments will be from sources such as the Bible, textbooks, the Internet, and popular magazines.

Unless enrollment is made for a No-Credit ( P ) grade, a enrolled student earns a grade based on completed work within the calendar restriction. Incomplete work within the calendar restriction earns a course grade of  I  (incomplete).

 

Structured courses use the software called Moodle,

It offers a powerful and elegant environment in which to provide course content, helping the student to work with it, and to administer quizzes. For general help with Moodle, go to their web-site on the Internet.

 

Suggestions on Using Moodle.

On the Home page, click the button at the top for On-line Classes.

You may have to log in. Click on the title line for the course.

Note at the top under “Communication Center” is “Live Chat” where your discussions with other students in this module takes place.

Then choose your class.

To progress beyond the initial lectures, the student must either enroll (for audit only) or enroll for full support and credit.  There are two different versions of each lower division course/module.  To audit, enroll the version with a lower division course/module number followed by the letter “a”; for example Ev31a.    

 

LEARN’s  No-charge learning materials

As mentioned above, LEARN offers both un-structured, no-charge study topics and lower-division auditing of on-line structured courses.

Also, the first part of all of  LEARN’s on-line courses, both lower division and advanced -- including a course description, are also no-charge.  This first part is identified with an appended “Introduction”.  Providing this Introduction gives a prospective students an idea of what each course is about before enrolling and paying fees for the rest. This course description includes requirements to pass the course, and the basis of grading.

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Academic Procedures At LEARN

 

Taking quizzes

In most courses, testing is done electronically by quizzes/exams, as specified by each course description.

Quizzes/exams are timed and each of the quizzes/exams in a course can be taken only once per enrolled student per term.

The student must certify that his/her responses during the quiz were provided closed book (without notes or books), and without assistance from others.

The software will electronically score the tests, record the test score, and report the results to the student.

 

Recording credit for a course

Before course credit can be recorded, the teacher must certify that the enrolled student passed, and with which grade. The course grade is recorded in the LEARN computer database, and is privately available to the student on-line.

There is no formal LEARN procedure to challenge courses.

 

Contact information

For general information see this catalog.  For general questions, e-mail to   help@learntruth.net.

 

Transfer credits into LEARN courses

LEARN accepts transfer credits from other comparable resident or distance learning programs, as long as courses are of equivalent topics, level, duration, and fidelity to the scriptures.

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Pilot Year Academic Calendar

 

Quarterly calendars

Enrolled courses/modules are taken within a calendar window. A 3-unit course runs for 12 weeks (one quarter), and a one-unit module for 4 weeks.  The shorter time-frames of modules allow the student to concentrate on one or a few courses at a time, move aggressively through the subject, and get it over with.

For the first year, as a pilot phase, three quarters will complete by mid September, so that courses can begin to be repeated in the Fall, 2007.

 

“Class officially begins” on the day when materials for only enrolled students are made available for the first time.

Before this enrollment the class materials labeled as “Introduction” are made available, This allows students days to consider the free materials  -- including Class Description, with its named textbook(s), decide to enroll, order the textbook(s), and send in the enrollment materials, including enrollment payments. Due to time constraints, this open period for the Pilot phase, Winter quarter, is about a week, but more time will be allowed later.

See the calendars below for details.

 

Pilot year calendar for full-quarter courses

(See the separate calendar below for modules.)

                                                                  W ’07   Spr. 07   Su. 07

Enrollment opens with Introductory, free materials available		03/05	06/04
Enrolled materials available-classes begins		03/26	06/18
Enrollment closes		04/08	07/01
Last day to drop		04/09	07/02
Last day to submit materials for credit	03/25	06/17	09/16

Pilot year calendar for modules

Three modules, each of four weeks, would run consecutively without overlap within one 12-week quarter.

     Module

      #                                                   W ’07    Spr ’07   Su 07

1	FIRST MODULE
1	Enrollment opens with Introductory, free materials available		03/05	06/04
1	Enrolled materials available – classes begin		03/26	06/18
1	Enrollment closes		04/01	06/24
1	Last day to drop		04/02	06/25
1	Last day to submit materials for credit		04/22	07/15
2	SECOND MODULE
2	Enrollment opens with Introductory materials avail.		04/06	06/29
2	Enrolled materials available – classes begin		04/23	07/16
2	Enrollment closes		04/01	07/22
2	Last day to drop		04/02	07/23
2	Last day to submit materials for credit		05/20	08/12
3	THIRD MODULE
3	Enrollment opens with Introductory materials avail.		05/04	07/27
3	Enrolled materials available – classes begin		05/21	08/13
3	Enrollment closes		05/27	08/19
3	Last day to drop		05/28	08/20
3	Last day to submit materials for credit	03/25	06/17	09/16

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LEARN’s Fee Structure

 

Fees: 

The gospel is free, so LEARN offers many materials at no charge, including no-charge lectures for auditors in lower division courses.

However, the laborer is worthy of his hire.  Luke 10:7; 1 Tim. 5:18.  The labor to package and present a course, interact with students, and support clerical and technical staff, are hired by means of students paying fees. Fees also fund the computer and network expenses, administrative overhead, and non-refundable enrollment administration costs.  Consider that instructors in LEARN may not be receiving financial support by a congregation and deserve direct compensation by LEARN students for their direct support, on the same principle that teachers of religious musicians are paid directly by their students. 

During this pilot year, while procedures are put into place for the first time, an introductory rate schedule applies.

Separate fees are required for course enrollment, transcripts, and program certificates.

When comparing the cost of education between virtual and resident colleges, remember that DL saves on expenses for travel and dormitories/housing. Also, most students have access to no-charge Internet service such as at public libraries or in Wi-Fi regions.

The bottom line is that LEARN’s fees make a very competitive package compared to the fees from resident colleges, even those that are publicly financed, and from other distance learning organizations.

 

Introductory fees for each individual course/module

$30.00 per quarter unit.

Enrollment fees can be partially refunded before the drop date. No refunds will be given after the drop date.

 

Applying for transcript

A transcript summarizes the progress for all courses taken thus far, with a Grade Point Average (GPA) calculated, and by which the faculty reports on the whole person.  Official transcripts are not available on-line, but the on-line student account will privately provide personal course records.

To obtain a transcript, apply to the Registrar including the surface mail address to mail the updated transcript to, and remit the transcript fee of $30.  If done by surface mail, mail to:  LEARN, P.O. Box  903, Ottumwa IA 52501, with attention to “Registrar, Transcript Request.

 

Applying for certificates

A certificate is earned by completing a required set of courses as specified by a program curriculum. This curriculum is composed of a core set of courses, plus advanced required courses and electives.

When the catalog’s list of curriculum requirements have been met by all course credits being gained and grades on record, the student may request electronically for a certificate to the Registrar, including a current surface mail address to send the certificate to. If the Registrar responds electronically with a verification that all requirements have been met, the student then pays the certificate fee of $50, and is sent by surface mail the certificate.  If there are still some problems, the Registrar will stipulate electronically what still needs to be done.  If application is done by surface mail, mail to: LEARN, P.O. Box 903, Ottumwa, IA 52501,  “attention Registrar”.

 

Loans

At this time, no loans are available from LEARN.  Some other sources for loans include family, friends, congregations, credit cards, and banks.

 

Scholarships

Recruiting, equipping, and supporting prospective students for ministry is a shared responsibility within the whole body of Christ.

Christians and congregations are encouraged to support directly students that they know.

In addition, a LEARN scholarship fund has been established for hardship cases, to be administered by a LEARN scholarship committee.

Donations to this LEARN scholarship fund are encouraged and solicited. Christians or churches who care about Christ’s command in the Great Commission and the future of our youth, the church, or the world, should prayerfully consider this opportunity for partnership by assistance.  Preferably, scholarships will be granted on a basis of matching by a local congregation or individual.

Prospective students in need who seek scholarships may apply to the Registrar for scholarships by sending in an essay, to include:

    a) their personal testimony of faith, conversion, and relationship

         to Christ,

    b) a summary of involvement in a stated local congregation,

    c) personal, academic and professional goals,

    d) a description (make, model, year) and payment obligations, if

        any, on any transportation vehicle(s) they own, and

    d) a brief list of their personal needs.

Append to this scholarship application two letters of recommendation (“well reported of by the brethren” Acts. 16:2) from church leaders of the stated congregation, which:  a) confirms the claims in the student essay,  b) states to what extent, if any, this congregation or individuals will join in support for the applying student,  c) concurs that the student is ready for college level study, with supporting evidence, and  d) asserts, with supporting evidence, that the applicant shows promise to succeed in a distance learning environment.

 

Payment mechanisms

Enrollment and tuition payments can be made at this time via cashiers check, personal check or Pay Pal, in full and in advance of clearance as a enrolled student.  The option for payment by credit card will be added later.

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Policies At LEARN

 

Drop out policy

Up to 50% of the enrollment fee is refundable if a course/module is dropped before the drop deadline on the academic calendar, taking into account the lectures opened and quiz/exams taken.

 

Copyrights

Faculty who prepare any course materials retain the copyrights for their materials. Materials distributed after enrollment are licensed for the use of each enrolled student alone, and may not be shared, duplicated, or distributed by any means without the prior expressed written permission of the course instructor.

While the gospel is free, the organization and presentation of course materials is the product of much preparation effort and a life-time of expertise. “The laborer is worthy of his hire.”

LEARN retains the copyright for the web-site “look and feel”, its menus, its catalog, promotion materials, and the procedures for their use in distance learning.

 

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is copying other’s work and claiming it is your own.  This is lying, and morally indefensible in any form, whether in quizzes,  written essays/reports/theses, or otherwise. Students are expected to identify author(s) and source where possible for quoted work, with footnotes or endnotes. This included quotations from Internet sources.

 

Student background

Currently, courses may be taken by any student who can use the Internet in English and write English language essays/term papers/theses at the college level. With growth, other languages may be added.

 

Transfer credit

 Credits from LEARN courses may be transferred, on approval, to MSE, and to other colleges. Contact them for their articulation agreements.

 

Administration

Administration is headed by its President Dan Smith, evangelist, Vice President of the Jamaica Bible Seminary, and a ten-year MSE teacher. Also involved in administration is a non-voting advisory council and the cooperation of teachers and staff.  The trustees of LEARN as specified in the non-profit articles of incorporation have only a legal, as contrasted to educational, role.

 

Academic standards

Courses are taught at a college level. 

Prerequisites for courses, if any, will be listed in course descriptions. 

Essays/term papers will be down graded for poor English, inadequate content, and fuzzy reasoning.

Essays/term papers are course requirements, and no credit can be earned, even with a reduced grade, without meeting requirements for acceptable essay(s).

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Course Grading

 

The process of receiving grades and credit

Full letter grades are assigned and recorded to each enrolled student for each course. The course grade is assigned after the term deadline is reached.  If course work has not been completed, an initial grade of I ( incomplete ) is assigned.  This  I  grade is retained until either course requirements are met, or 24 months expires.  After 24 months, the Registrar changes the I grade to F.

 

Reasons for assigning letter grades 

One reason for letter grades is to summarize for each course the quality of accomplishment. 

Another reason for assigning grades is to certify competence.  A course offers more than a set of topics to master. It demands the student show competence as a student beyond repeating back what has been taught, such as by the initiative the student shows, and the record of student involvement -- irregular or consistent of pace, perfunctory or diligent, a novice or a skilled workman, narrow or wide scope of demonstrated perspective.

“Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth.” 2 Tim. 2:15

Also, there is the spiritual dimension.  Does the student “handle aright the word of truth”?  Does the student demonstrate reverence and skill in the use of scripture, including the ability to distinguish between what the Bible specifically says and the conclusions which might be drawn from it by human reason, experience, or emotion.

Assigning grades by letter rather than a per-cent score recognizes that there are other dimensions to course success than a per-cent success in echoing back facts. The specific course description will detail how all these dimensions are synthesized into a grade.

 

Meaning of letter grades

The meaning of the letter grade at LEARN is consistent with that found in most colleges and universities.

 

	MEANING	Pts
A	Outstanding	4
B	Excellent	3
C	Good	2
D	Barely passing	1
F	Failing	0
I	Incomplete	----
P	No-Credit, but not graded further	----

 

If a course is repeated with successive enrollments, only the best course grade will be included in calculation of Grade Point Average (GPA).

 

No-credit ( P ) grades

If permitted by the instructor, during enrollment students may elect to notify the instructor the intent to take a course on a no-credit basis, just for general/continuing education. A grade of P will not be included in computation of GPA, and it cannot later be converted to other letter grades by supplying missing work. On the transcript it merely will show the student’s interest in the course topics. The same enrollment fee applies.

There is no LEARN provision for continuing in advanced course without enrolling, or enrolling in advanced courses only for an audit.

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Faculty and staff