Unveiling Religious Identity in Virtual Classrooms: Insights and Impacts

https://doi.org/10.55549/ijaste.62

Abstract

The shift to online learning in universities, particularly following the pandemic, has prompted educators to adapt traditionally face-to-face courses such as religious education to virtual formats. This mixed-method study employed surveys with 308 college students at a Catholic institution and in-depth interviews with 27 participants to examine how online delivery shapes students' religious identity. Thematic analysis of interview data revealed four key themes: embracing adaptability and introspection, fostering connections beyond physical boundaries, broadening spiritual perspectives, and grappling with technological challenges. The findings illuminate the interplay between digital learning experiences and religious identity development, offering actionable insights for educators aiming to enhance virtual religious education. Recommendations include conducting longitudinal studies to monitor student religious identity shifts within online environments and evaluate digital religious education's enduring effects on faith and community engagement.