| Online education and online video have both drastically increased in the 21st century, but previous research has not fully explored how video small groups might develop community in Christian education. For that reason, starting with relevant literature, then expanding through inductive coding of videos, this study determined which community practices were visible in video small groups in online Bible classes at Moody Bible Institute. Additional data was also gathered to determine the participants' experience of Christian community in the small groups. The dissertation concludes with suggestions for future research in Christian education and other ministry contexts.;The purpose of this project was to determine the effectiveness of asynchronous, interpersonal videos within small groups for cultivating Christian community in four online undergraduate classes---specifically, would Christian community be present in such groups, and if so, which community practices would be visible? Participants included students enrolled in online studies at Moody Bible Institute. In total, 57 students participated in the video small groups---with 48 analyzed videos, as well as pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, follow-up interviews, and participant observation used for data gathering.;This research confirmed that Christian community occurred in the asynchronous video small groups---with certain practices (e.g., self-expression, discipleship, and gratitude) being more visible than others (e.g., humility and love). All respondents believed in the possibility of online Christian community; the final videos displayed 15 community practices of Christian community; nearly all (32 of 35) felt that the videos contributed towards online community; and most (33 of 35) expressed willingness to use video in future courses. |
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