Tag Archives | 2001

Ebersole, Samuel E., and Robert Woods. “Virtual Community: Koinonia or Compromise?-Theological Implications of Community in Cyberspace.” Christian Scholars Review 31, no. 2 (2001): 185–216.

Abstract: With the growth of computer-mediated communication and the rise of virtual communities, theological issues relating to the nature of these relationships must be addressed. The authors first define community and then explore recent trends in online communities. The discussion of virtual community and new media technologies is grounded in a historical context focusing on the introduction of the telegraph and radio broadcasting. Buber’s dialogic communication is proposed as a normative base for community in light of the interpersonal character of online community. And finally, six virtues of community are discussed in light of the technologies and practices of online community.

Brauch, Jeffrey, and Robert Woods. “Faith, Learning and Justice in Alan Dershowitz’s The Genesis of Justice: Toward a Proper Understanding of the Relationship between the Bible and Modern Justice.” Valparaiso University Law Review 36, no. 1 (October 15, 2001): 1-71.

Abstract: We first want to commend you for undertaking the challenge to interweave your legal education with a biblical perspective. The Seminar correctly recognizes what generations of scholars have clearly demonstrated: the Bible is foundational to our modern American conceptions of law and justice.(FN1)
We were delighted to hear Professor Dershowitz’s report on the amount of interest in the Seminar when it was first offered at Harvard in the Fall of 1997: 150 students for twenty places!(FN2) The interest displayed for this class, not to mention the very existence of the Seminar itself, is consistent with what has been called the “religious revival” at American law schools that is changing the face of legal education as we know it.(FN3) And since we were unable to attend the Seminar, we have accepted Professor Dershowitz’s gracious invitation to “continue the dialogue” in this format and trust that our comments will be submitted to you so as to add to the “dialogue among generations.”(FN4)

Woods, Robert, and Jack Keeler. “The Effect of Instructor’s Use of Audio E-mail Messages on Student Participation in and Perceptions of Online Learning: a preliminary case study.” Open Learning 16, no. 3 (October 2001): 263-278. doi: 10.1080/02680510120084977

Abstract: The researchers, in the context of LEAD 713, a graduate-level online course at Regent University, consider whether the systematic use of instructor-initiated audio e-mails (as a supplement to regular textual forms of communication) will increase students’ participation in group discussion and result in more favorable student perceptions of student/faculty relationships and quality of group discussion, a greater sense or feeling of online community, and a higher degree of satisfaction with the overall learning experience. The results as a whole appear to challenge the researchers’ initial assumptions. Benefits of audio e-mails are discussed and future research designs are suggested.