The General Theological Seminary (GTS) will start offering hybrid degree programs for Fall 2022. The educational institution is the first seminary established by The Episcopal Church.
Hybrid courses refer to classes that implement blended learning. It uses both traditional classroom instruction and online learning tools.
Transitioning From Residential-Only Model to Flexible Approach
According to the Episcopal News Service (ENS), GTS will begin to transition into a different system.
The New York City Episcopal seminary is currently implementing a residential-only model. Under this model, students are gathered to a particular place or residence for spiritual formation.
However, GTS saw a chance to change its approach for fall 2022. It decided to implement a new approach due to the increased demand for flexible graduate programs.
As per the report, hybrid courses offer flexible and practical education through online tools. Aside from that, it can also help financially struggling students since it is cost-efficient.
GTS will capitalize on this flexibility as it continues the spiritual formation of students. It believes that students can receive spiritual formation through prayer, service, and study.
ENS reported that GTS is also dedicated to providing equal access to theological education. The seminary stressed that moving away from an all-residential paradigm is better for students.
Prioritizing Students, Their Circumstances
In an interview, The Rev. Dr. April Stace expressed his sentiments regarding this shift. She is the director of Contextual & Competency-Based Learning,
Dr. Stace pointed out that the shift into a flexible approach would benefit the students.
She reiterated that the seminary must consider and prioritize students and their circumstances. The director believes that it promotes their growth for lay and ordained ministry.
Reverend April stressed that seminaries believe that formation could only occur in a specific place. She added that seminaries viewed formation as something that only uses one method.
"That has led to, at times, a tragic disconnect between seminary education and actual, lived ministry," she said.
Dr. Stace claimed that GTS may address this by highlighting the students' "diverse contexts."
Crafting Hybrid Model With Inclusions
The seminary's Board of Trustees (BOT) assigned the faculty to design a hybrid model.
The BOT works under the leadership of the Very Rev. Michael W. DeLashmutt. He is the acting dean and president of the General Theological Seminary.
The hybrid model of GTS for Fall 2022 will offer full-tuition scholarships. This will be available for the first 15 admitted Master of Divinity students.
GTS professors will also provide students with synchronous and asynchronous activities.
The Episcopal seminary will host week-long intensive sessions. It will be conducted three times a year.
Furthermore, GTS will introduce a committed team of professional and spiritual mentors. It is to ensure the academic success and personal well-being of each student.
About General Theological Seminary
According to its website, GTS is situated on the west side of Manhattan, New York City. The teaching institution is reportedly considered the Anglican Communion's oldest seminary.
The Episcopal seminary strives to educate and form lay and ordained leaders for the church.
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