Creating a local study group using a Wilmette Institute distance-learning course is now easier than ever, thanks to decisions making the process more user-friendly. Here are five easy steps to get you started:
1. Pick a distance-learning course (DLC) from current offerings (see the up-to-date list at http://wilmetteinstitute.org/calendar.html).
2. Form a study group of as few as two members or as many as-well, that is up to you.
3. Register for the DLC on the Wilmette Institute’s website. The first person in the group to register must give the group a name and select a group password.
4. Pay a flat group rate of $300.00. You can send a check or money order made out to the Wilmette Institute, or you can pay by credit card at the Wilmette Institute website.
5. Designate a “group correspondent” to receive one set of course materials and to make copies for the group members. Any group member wishing an additional set of course materials can purchase them from Eileen Hanson (ehanson@usbnc.org) for $20.00.
After the group is registered, it will meet twice monthly to discuss the assigned readings and study questions. This is in addition to each member’s individual work. At least once a month the groups will be able to discuss assignments with its assigned mentor.
In addition, the group correspondent will keep the mentor informed about the group’s progress.
Any member of the group who completes the distance-learning course will receive a certificate of completion.
The International Teaching Center, in a February 2000 letter, described local study circles as including a small group of Bahá’ís who meet regularly “in their own locality with a tutor who helps them through a selected sequence of courses.” Wilmette Institute distance-learning courses provide existing local study circles with a new way of studying the Faith.
The structured distance-learning courses, the regular study, the regular meetings, and the availability of a mentor via telephone and e-mail--all meet the requirements set out for study circles.
