Undergoing the first significant change in 30 years, the salvation army continuing education program (SACEP) is better than ever. With a customizable agenda of classes, it allows officers to participate in more focused study to meet their interests and needs.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom its restructure also promotes further academic achievement, providing personal validation, enabling better service and leadership, and garnering community respect.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

We talked with major cherri hobbins, territorial officer resource development secretary, and dr. Robert simpson, dean of the school of graduate and continuing studies at olivet nazarene university (ONU), to understand why the time was right for this overhaul, what it took to accomplish, how the redesigned program will work and its key benefits for officers.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom here’s what we found out. What precipitated this change?

Hobbins: the new program offers variety and the ability to really design your own program.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom it picks up on the individual “spark”—what you’re interested in or what you feel you really need in order to be successful. It goes beyond the surface of subjects.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom for instance, one of the things I’ve discovered is a real need of new officers for more business knowledge, and this allows a deeper dive into business practices.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Simpson: you can bundle courses together. For instance, some courses in business, some in human services and some in leadership. They range from financial accounting for managers and human resource management, to leadership and ethics.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom there are 12 courses in all with a concentration in business. And we’ll constantly be adding more course options to fit needs and interests.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Simpson: every course at olivet has a strong christian, “kingdom” perspective, and all faculty members have to be attuned with that evangelical perspective.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom so, we’re very much in sync with the army. And everything learned is contextualized to an army setting. Students are not only learning theories but how they apply to their organization.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Hobbins: the SACEP distinctive of officers in their first five years connecting with their sessionmates face-to-face will remain, only as a short retreat—just three days in may—and will focus on personal and professional development, not academics.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom there will still be a learning component, but it’s about spiritual formation. Could you elaborate?

The retreat will take the place of the fifth course traditionally audited by officers, so attendance is required by all officers during their first five years.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom at these retreats, interviews of first- and fifth-year officers will also be conducted by the secretary for personnel. How will this online learning work and what are some of the advantages?Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Hobbins: one of the best things is the flexibility to fit learning into your schedule. Online learning is easier for officers with demanding, busy schedules.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom now you can study year-round, at your own pace, without having to leave your appointment twice a year for a week at a time. It’s especially convenient for officers with small children.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

There are three elements that make this type of learning so successful. First, the professor is present; they must touch base with students five days a week through this medium.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom and students must be present—online in these discussion boards—at least two days a week. Third is the intentional cognitive learning. It’s proven that the learning that happens this way is deep and rich!Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Hobbins: with the old practical ministries degree, we found that officers finished the mandated coursework, but it didn’t always meet their specific needs or spur them on to going further in their education.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom we think the new program will. They’re still required to finish four courses in five years but, given the new online approach, it can be accomplished in as little as two years!Cognitive learning theory in the classroom with all the SACEP courses fitting into specific degrees, when they finish the required courses, they are not very far away from obtaining a degree.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom

Simpson: they can go on and obtain a bachelor’s degree in business administration, human services, practical ministries, or multi-disciplinary studies; or a master’s in business administration, ministry, organizational leadership for mission-driven organizations, human services or various ministry degrees.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom students not ready to complete a degree can complete a certificate program in the areas of leadership, nonprofit management, coaching, intercultural studies and others, each for academic credit.Cognitive learning theory in the classroom