New Center for Distance Learning at Jewish Theological Seminary
By Sybil Maimin

Distance learning, the ability to study at one’s convenience, whether for a degree or for enrichment, by logging onto the Internet from almost any computer anywhere has become a reality. In a dedication of The Phyllis Kaminer Center for Distance Education at the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), Professor of Talmud and Jewish Law Rabbi Joel Roth explained that education via the Internet is just another stage in an evolution in the technologies of learning that, according to rabbinic literature, began on the eve of the sixth day of creation when God created writing, which made knowledge more widespread and accessible. Plato called writing a gift of the Gods meant to enhance memory and wisdom. Following the invention of printing in the fifteenth century, the first books in the Hebrew language appeared in Rome, then Spain, and then Constantinople. Some scribes, feeling threatened, attacked the new technology as inferior, but printing caught on and the Jewish book market rapidly changed from mainly hand inscribed to print, allowing for more complicated texts including commentaries. “Each era’s visionaries have built upon the successes of the past creating a continuous stream of improvements,”commented Rabbi Roth. “More recently, we have marveled at new possibilities presented by the typewriter, photography, microfilm, the telegram, TV and digital instruments. As yet unimagined technologies will inform future generations.”

From ancient times to our day, students have

had to go to the place where their teacher is located. Distance learning changes this dynamic, traversing both time and space to allow interaction between student and teacher from opposite ends of the globe. The program at JTS which began as an experiment five years ago, currently offers two online degree programs: MA’s in Jewish education and in Judaic studies. Non-degree courses can also be taken for professional development and for personal enrichment. Courses have been created that adapt the content and standards of the classroom to the possibilities of the Internet. Educators are being forced to think outside of the familiar box. Formal lectures are not suitable; classwork must be presented in small units. Logging on to the school’s website, students find lessons which they complete and return after exploring and making their own way through the net’s many linked materials. They interact with teachers and fellow students via a course bulletin board. Photos of the students are posted to humanize discussions. Everything can be downloaded. For the first time in history, a great teacher can reach unlimited numbers of students. A JTS course is taught by a professor in Jerusalem. When texts are in Hebrew, translations and comments are available.

Distance learning, a “new link in an ancient chain,” is still in its infancy. It may change the nature of education, but careful oversight must be applied to its development, advised Rabbi Roth. For more information log on to http://courses.jtsa.edu/.#

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