Recently I was asked to beta test a web-based tool for students to study and interact in the area of theology. Since I oversee credentialing in the district I serve, I thought it would be interesting to participate so that I could a) learn and b) see if this tool would have applications for my role as director of credentialing.
So far what I have learned mostly is that despite my being technologically savvy, I prefer reading theology from a book, not a web page. Flipping from "page" to "page" on-line is not like flipping from page to page in book. The touch of pages on one's fingers is more satisfying than touching keys on a keyboard. And web pages do not have a distinctive smell. I have books published in the 18th century, but even those printed in the 20th century have an ink and paper smell that is, obviously, lacking in the virtual world. These two sensory experiences of touch and smell have been, for many generations, intimately associated with study.
I look forward to continuing the on-line course, but I have to admit the experience so far has been underwhelming. That says more about me than it does about the web or those who have created this tool. I am a definitely a child of my time.
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