"The Baha'i Faith, 1892-1921"
(Feb. 1-Apr. 30, 2003)

TOPIC: The course will survey the development of the Baha'i Faith from 1892 to 1921 (the ministry of Abdu'l-Baha) focusing on such matters as development of the community, understanding of the nature of the Baha'i teachings, and external relations. [Note: because of lack of students, the course was not run.]

DATES: Feb. 15, 2003 to May 15, 2003

TEXTS: A packet of readings assembled by the Institute.

FACULTY: Roger Dahl, Richard Hollinger, Moojan Momen, and Robert Stockman

COST: $150 (individual); $300 (group)
Financial aid is available.

There are no residential requirements, for the course is conducted by correspondence and over the internet. The Institute may be able to assist students to obtain college credit.

The course may be taken at the introductory level (a basic course that will help students teach the Faith more effectively), the intermediate level (for more in-depth study) or the advanced level (equivalent to graduate-level study).

WORK EXPECTATIONS: The course will take five to ten hours of work each week and will involve:

A. Reading and using the knowledge acquired. All students must complete one posting per unit. At the end of the course, each student completes two learning projects, one involving a presentation (fireside, deepening, children's or youth class, artistic presentation) and the other a writing project (essay, religion study outline, local course curriculum; length depends on the learning level you choose).

B. Assistance by a mentor who reviews and comments on all homework and answers questions.

C. For those who are part of local study groups, discussion assignments are provided.

D. Participation in "HISTORY," the course's email discussion group. Because of the speed and efficiency e?mail provides, all students are urged to acquire e-mail for the course.

E. Access to the course's password-protected web site, which includes additional study material and completed sample homework assignments.

F. Voluntary participation in conference calls with other students and a faculty member.

GRADING OPTIONS: The course is usually taken pass/fail, but may be taken for a grade.

WHAT LEARNING PROGRAMS DOES THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE OFFER?
Basics of the Bahá'í Faith Courses: Four distance-learning courses covering basic aspects of the Bahá'í Faith. One course is offered every six months; the entire sequence can be covered in a two-year period.

Beyond the Basics Distance-Learning Courses: Specialized distance-learning courses (such as this one) on a variety of topics (including the Bahá'í writings, history, teachings, and world religions). Some forty courses are rotated on a four-year cycle.

Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization Program: A four-year program including two weeks of intensive study each summer in Wilmette and ten months of home study.