History Repeating Itself
Most discipleship and biblical studies instruction relies on explanations and/or lectures. This is the case for not only present instruction, but how learning has developed historically. Most of us feel very comfortable with this style of teaching because this is the way that we have experienced learning in the classroom or other settings.
While lectures and explanations are familiar to most of us, these methods of instruction promote less effective learning experiences.” José E. Balcells, Ph.D.
You Have Choices On How You Learn
Imagine what biblical studies and discipleship education would be like when you compare different methods of instruction. Two main approaches dominate biblical studies education, and instruction in general: passive learning and active learning. While passive learning places the instructor at the center, delivering information through lectures and explanations, active learning engages students in a dynamic process of exploration, discovery, and critical thinking. Let’s explore each one of these two choices.
Choice #1: Passive Learning
Passive learning is often characterized by a one-way flow of information. Instructors present concepts, theories, and facts, often through lectures, explanations, and textbooks. Lectures and explanations tend to be a one-way delivery to you, the learner, of already processed knowledge. Unfortunately, you are often left out of the important step of discovering and processing knowledge for yourself.
You are expected to absorb information through rote memorization and note-taking. While this approach can be efficient in transmitting basic knowledge, it fails to stimulate critical thinking or encourage you to connect new information to your existing understanding.
Choice #2: Active Learning
Active learning, in contrast, promotes a participatory environment. You are no longer a passive recipient; you become an active participant in the learning process. This can involve a variety of strategies like problem-solving activities, group discussions, case studies, simulations, and projects.
In addition, active learning encourages you to analyze information, ask questions, make connections, and apply your understanding to real-world scenarios. You even make mistakes, and more importantly, learn from those mistakes! It’s like providing you with a toolbox and teaching you how to build something meaningful with the tools. Not only do you gain knowledge, but you also develop valuable skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Benefits of Active Learning
The benefits of using active learning in biblical studies are compelling. Research consistently demonstrates its superiority in fostering deeper comprehension and knowledge retention compared to 
passive methods. Active engagement allows you to link new information to your existing knowledge base, creating a more robust and meaningful understanding of the biblical text. Moreover, active learning empowers you to become a critical thinker. By actively analyzing information, identifying patterns, and drawing conclusions, you hone your ability to think deeply and independently.
Active learning also injects a much-needed dose of engagement and motivation into the learning process. You are more invested when you are actively involved in constructing your knowledge. This fosters curiosity, a sense of ownership over your learning journey, and a desire to explore further. Passive lectures, on the other hand, can be monotonous and disengaging, leading to boredom and difficulty focusing.
Why Do We Not See More Active Learning?
Implementing active learning effectively in biblical studies requires careful planning and preparation from instructors. It involves a shift in focus from simply transmitting information to facilitating the learning process. Instructors must create a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable and at the same time grow in their spiritual journey.
Our Invitation to You
If you are reading this, you are probably as passionate about discipleship and biblical studies as we are. We would like to offer you active learning options for your spiritual journey! Next, we invite you to see how we use active learning with one-on-one tutoring.
Or if you are ready to explore active options now, feel free to demo the digital tutor (DT) and/or see the DT courses that we have available for you. Check out some testimonials of past course participants.