LHM Learn, LHM's online resource for Bible-based courses, provides learners with courses to help strengthen their faith and empower their outreach. In October, LHM Learn transitioned to a new platform: Reach360. The new system gives users "a sleeker, simpler, more mobile-friendly experience. They will appreciate the shorter and easier registration process along with enhanced tools to search for and find courses in the library," said Chris Macky, instructional designer for LHM.
"When users log in to the new platform at lhm.org/learn (same web address as before), they will notice that their 'Learn' page clearly shows the courses that are in progress along with those they have completed. They can pick up right where they left off or find a new course in the Learning Library. This new library gives users several options to sort courses and filter searches. If a user is logging in for the first time, the best place to start is by viewing the micro-learning course called, 'Orientation to LHM Learn,'" Macky said.
For those who already use LHM Learn, all its original courses have been transferred to the new platform, along with additional options like micro-learning courses and learning paths. Micro-learning courses are short, bite-sized courses that can be completed in less than ten minutes.
"The best part of this new platform is its mobile-friendly design. Many people access learning content on their phones or tablets in addition to their computers and laptops. This new platform provides a clear appearance and easy navigation on any size device. And, of course, access is always totally free!" Macky said.
LHM Learn offers courses in five categories centered on a Called-Equipped-Sent paradigm. Designed for individual, self-paced learning, courses feature Scripture-based lessons, detailed graphics, video and audio segments, discussion questions, and prompts for reflection. Categories are Christian Foundations (basics of Christianity from biblical, theological, and historical perspectives); Cultural Concepts (understanding the different demographics, cultures, and religions in our world today); Everyday Insights (thoughts about the good and bad that life throws our way); Outreach Essentials (personal evangelism and tools to reach others with the Gospel); and Spiritual Reflections (devotional thoughts meant to strengthen and encourage). To begin your learning, go to lhm.org/learn.
As a complement to Lutheran Hour Ministries' Gifted for More resources, LHM Learn recently released three short courses related to the topic. Each 20-minute course zeroes in on a different aspect or step in the process of understanding our various gifts and living out those gifts in our lives to serve God and bless others.
Course titles correspond to the Gifted for More approach of comprehending, developing, and sharing our God-given gifts. Course one, Discover Your Gifts—The Challenge of Awareness, encourages learners to dig deep and explore all the ways God has gifted them. Course two, Grow Your Gifts—The Challenge of Intentionality, urges learners to maximize their gifts through deliberate action. Course three, Share Your Gifts—The Challenge of Generosity, motivates learners to use their gifts in abundant ways.
Each course is centered on the belief that "everyone is a gift with gifts to share." We all have aptitudes, interests, and skill sets that God has richly blessed us with. It is these personal assets that make the body of Christ on earth so powerful, as we lovingly and compassionately express our gifts in thanks to God and in service to one another.
Each LHM Learn Gifted for More course includes content drawn from LHM's ongoing partnership with Barna Group. Video interviews with Barna researchers and study developers highlight key findings in the data. Scriptural references reinforce important points, and study questions challenge learners to consider the gifts they possess and how they can use them. Each course is practical and engaging, so learners can jump in and begin to discover, grow, and share their gifts.