With the new year under way, now is a good time for teachers, catechists and people who are interested in learning more about their Catholic faith to consider signing up for online courses through the University of Dayton, says Chris Malmevik, associate director for catechesis in the diocesan Office for Catechesis.
Since June 2006, the Springfield diocese has been a partner with the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) at the University of Dayton. VLCFF is an Internet based distance learning initiative which supports adult faith formation and the catechetical ministry of the church.
The courses, which run for three to six weeks, are available on Scripture, sacraments, Catholic beliefs, church history, Jesus, media education and more. A certificate is given for each course and is co-signed by a diocesan representative.
Signing up for online classes is both convenient and economical, says Malmevik. "The online courses usually cost $80, but because of the partnership our (diocesan) people pay $40," she says. "Anyone can take these courses. These particular courses are offered for faith formation for adults, so they help you grow in faith. Also, faculty members (from one school or parish) could take a class together. We have had a school that has done that."
Debbie Popovchak-Erickson, a teacher at Ss. Peter and Paul School in Collinsville and an organist for two other Catholic churches, says she is grateful for VLCFF courses because they are both informative and convenient. "When you are a teacher and a mom, you are at school all day, then you have to find a sitter, you have to fix supper and it is more difficult to get away for classes. With this I can be working on it late in the evening when my 10-year-old is sleeping," she says, adding that she has already taken five on-line classes while working toward her catechist certification.
"I have taken all of the classes at the intermediate level and one of the advanced level courses. I take one class at a time because there is quite a bit of reading involved and some writing. But it is so nice to be able to work when you have the time," she says, estimating that she spends five to 10 hours a week on her studies.
"It is just a wonderful experience. I would encourage other people to sign up for this," Popovchak-Erickson says. "You are able to dialogue with people all around the United States who are also taking these courses. I am also able to pass different things that I've learned on to my students."
Just like any adult classes, there is limited amount of space in each particular section. About 15 people can take a class, says Malmevik. "We encourage people to register for classes early. If they notice that there is a great interest in a class, they will open up another class in that section."
Principals and DREs should have the 2008 course listings that will be available during Cycle 2 through Cycle 6, says Malmevik. Interested individuals can also obtain a listing by visiting the Web site for the Springfield diocese, www.dio.org, and clicking on the Office for Catechesis and then the religious education page. Or, they can call Chris Malmevik at (217) 698-8500, ext. 178.