Comments from students who have taken this class
1. This was the first time I ever took an online class. I had never been a big fan of them, they seemed impersonal. However, Dr. Ratcliff is not only an expert on his field, he also has a great sense of humor and warmth plus he shared many personal stories that brought us closer as a class. Additionally Dr. Ratcliff was available to us students via email and also via blackboard discussions. We were encouraged to comment on each section (video-lecture) and he would respond to our observations and short assignments.
2. The second part of the class was devoted to Qualitative Research Methods, a subject I had no background in. It was also the reason why I took the class. While the experience of learning all kinds of new information really stretched me, I was able to both understand and assimilate the information through the video lectures and supplemental readings, videos, articles, interviews, power point presentations and book suggestions. Keep in mind that this past semester I was taking a full load of PhD courses at [school] plus part time job, plus ministry. This class could have easily been pushed aside, but I was so pleased with the teaching methods and so interested in the subject that I was able to stay engaged even during busy weeks. In short Dr. Ratcliff provided a rich learning experience. I loved the class.
3. There is nothing more valuable in ministry than being authentic and you are that Dr. Ratcliff. Thank you for being the real thing and inspiring me to be as well!
4. Thank you Dr Ratcliff- this class was a “game-changer” for me. Not only as a student (scholar) but as a minister and follower of Christ. A very rich experience. say thank you Dr. Ratcliff for introducing so many books to us. I really appreciate it, since I love to read. What a wealth of resources! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Wheaton College CFM 570 Online Fall, 2011
Instructor: Don Ratcliff, Ph.D. August 24 through December 17
Explore the spiritual nurture and experiences of children from the comfort of your home in this online class. Students will explore perspectives of children's spirituality, the century of research in this area, personally selected studies of children's spirituality, and research methods specific to this area of study. Dialogue with other graduate students through online discussion forums. Exploratory observation and interviewing of children prepares the student for future research or ministry application. Two hours of graduate credit. Involves approximately two hours online each week.
To enroll for the class you become a special student at Wheaton, which involves a short application and submitting an official transcript (admission processing time is approximately 24 hours). Enrollment is limited. Click "sign me up" (at the left) for more details and forms.
Course introduction video (with full screen option)
