About the EDITS

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NZATS
History
Goals of EIDTS
The Work of EIDTS

Welcome to the Ecumenical Institute of Distance Theological Studies (EIDTS). This Web site is intended to provide you with information regarding the work of EIDTS and the courses that it offers.

The Ecumenical Institute aims to provide quality theological education by distance learning in an accessible form and at an affordable price. Its courses are designed for people to study from their own homes and in their own time. Subject areas include Theology, Biblical Studies, Church History, and Mission and Ministry. Some people may simply want to study these subjects “out of interest” while others may be wishing to better equip themselves for their work in the ministry and mission of the Church and in their local parish. The courses are open to people of all denominations and traditions.

NZATS

EIDTS is a member of the New Zealand Association of Theological Schools (NZATS).

History

The Ecumenical Institute of Distance Theological Studies was founded in 1993 to provide the Licentiate in Theology (LTh) and the Scholar in Theology (STh) diplomas by distance learning.

Prior to 1968 the Licentiate in Theology (LTh) and the Scholar in Theology (STh) diplomas were offered through the St John’s Theological College in Auckland as part of the ministry training programme of the Anglican and Methodist Churches in New Zealand.

In 1968 the Joint Board of Theological Studies was established by the five churches then involved in negotiations for Church Union. The LTh was the agreed syllabus for theological studies approved by those churches.

In 1992 the Joint Board of Theological Studies was dissolved and at the beginning of 1993 the Ecumenical Board of Theological Studies was formed with its administration based in Christchurch. The Board which exercises oversight of the programme consists of two representatives from each of the Anglican, Methodist, and Presbyterian Churches and the Salvation Army, along with one representative from the Churches Education Commission, and a member with particular interests and involvement in distance education.

It is the Ecumenical Board that has the oversight and governance of EIDTS and its work in distance theological education. The Ecumenical Board is registered as a private training provider by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the provisions of the Education Act 1989 and its subsequent amendments.

Goals of EIDTS

Providing the opportunity, through distance education, for people to study towards the qualifications of Licentiate in Theology and Scholar in Theology.
Providing learning in a variety of ways including residential schools and courses which may be accessed through the internet.
Ongoing assessment of its staff, programmes, and delivery systems to ensure that they are inclusive, and bi-culturally appropriate.
Developing and updating its teaching material.
Maintaining its links with participating churches.
Ensuring that its courses are relevant to people in their varied locations, situations, and circumstances.
Providing educational opportunities for students to enrich their
understanding of and interaction with Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Maori.

The Work of EIDTS

EIDTS is the examining body for LTh and S.Th but it also teaches its own courses. These courses are presented to you through Study Guides, sets of Readings and a Tutor. If you are already studying we hope that you will continue to take part in courses and that you will encourage others to make a start. If you are just beginning we hope you will continue to enjoy the experience. We welcome comments designed to improve the service we offer.