FAQs

Crossing Currents

An Online, Interactive Approach to Christian Apologetics for Teens and Young Adults.

How is Crossing Currents (XC) different from other apologetic courses?

XC is different in both format and content.

Format: Most online, seminar, and classroom courses in religious debate and/or Christian apologetics are textbook-based or information-based with minimum opportunity for students to practice skills. This is similar to placing students in a shop class, showing them the variety of tools and telling them to use them. Apologetics by nature is interactive. We believe it is essential for students to have an opportunity to practice using their skills instead of merely informing them about the skills.

With XC there is no need to attend a seminar. This eliminates some of the cost and inconvenience incurred with some apologetics training courses. Students can participate in XC classes from home.

Other courses often evaluate student performance by relying on fill in the blank or multiple choice test questions. In contrast, XC is dialogue and writing oriented.

Like other courses, Crossing Currents provides students with the information they need to learn the basics of apologetics, debate and Christian worldview. We introduce them to a wide array of resources at their disposal. Unlike other classes, we do not stop there. We also provide a forum for students to engage in discussion, debate and dialogue with instructors and other students on a long-term basis. Students spend 4-6 weeks interacting with an instructor instead of simply reading on-screen text or listening to a recorded lecture. They are expected to complete research projects that are writing-based instead of supplying rote answers to standard questions. Then, as questions arise, students are expected to use the discussion board to refine their ideas and arguments. Best of all, they will have access to the discussion board even after the classes are over. They can ask questions that may surface from sharing their beliefs with others, or if they find themselves facing doubts and uncertainty, or if they need support for issues that come up in college classes. Our goal is to provide a long-term resource that they can rely on throughout their young adulthood.

Content: Instead of overwhelming students with a large amount of complex and sometimes confusing concepts, XC provides small chunks of valuable information for students to digest, accompanied with dialogue, research, and discussion to help them process that information. The program also focuses on a comprehensive approach to apologetics and truth. Read more about this in our philosophy section.

How long do the classes last?

The Core Classes last 6 weeks. Some elective classes may last 4 weeks.

If I am on vacation (or away) during this time, can I still take a class?

If you are away from home but have access to a computer, you can still participate in the classes. Otherwise, a short time, such as 4 days away from the class, is probably the longest reasonable amount of time students can be expected to miss. If they are away from the classes longer than this, students sometimes get behind and drop out instead of getting the full benefit from the class.

Do I need to take Core I (Basic) before taking Core II (Intermediate)?

You do need to take Core I before Core II unless you are familiar with the basic arguments for the existence of God and for Christianity. However, students may find that taking Core I is still valuable to them because of the unique XC format (see above). You must take Core II before you can take Core III.

Do I need to take a Core Class before I take an Elective Class?

Yes. You are required to take Core I (or equivalent) or Core II before taking an Elective Class.

May I have a refund if I sign up for a class but do not actually take the class?

You may have a refund up to two weeks prior to the start of class. That will give us time to fill your slot with a student who is on the waiting list. There is a $10 processing fee if you drop a class before the two week deadline. It you drop the class within the two weeks, you will be assessed the full fee.

Do the classes meet at a specific time or can I visit a class on my own schedule?

The classes do not meet at a specific time. You can visit on your own schedule as long as you turn in assignments on time. We recommend that students check in on the class daily.

Can parents also view the classes?

Yes. Parents are encouraged to contact instructors if there are any concerns or questions about the classes.

Can I join the Discussion Group without taking a class?

No. The discussion group is a benefit we provide those who have taken a class. It is set up to provide ongoing input and discussion based on the topics and relationships formed while taking the classes. Much of the discussion will center around issues or concerns that may have been mentioned in class, so class participation is a requirement.

Is class time spent at the computer or away from the computer, or both?

The time is spent mostly (but not all) at the computer.

Is this class allowed to be counted as high school credit hours? If so, how many credits?

Yes, this could serve as an elective. It would count as 1/4 credit (half a semester). The Core I and Core II together would count as one semester of credit.

Will each student receive a "grade" upon completion of the course?

Yes, students will receive a grade unless the parent requests no grade be given. Many of our clients are homeschoolers. Not all homeschoolers have a philosophy of education that includes grades, so we leave that up to the parents to decide.

Expectations will change with each class. For the Core I class, we are concerned mostly about participation and signs that the students comprehend and interact with both the material and with others. As we have stated, dialogue is a key element in apologetics.

How much writing is required?

For the Core I class, there will be one small writing assignment each week. Of course students will be typing their thoughts in the discussions as well. In the Core II and Core III classes, we will require at least one formal paper beyond the weekly assignments and discussions. We will help students plan and build up to that final paper.

Will the writing assignments be graded for content only, or will they also be graded for grammar, proper form and punctuation, as well as ability to put their thoughts in writing and clearly get their point across?

The discussion assignments will not be focused on grammar and spelling.

We will look at all of these areas for the writing assignments. We expect students will grow into expressing themselves well through writing as they progress through the program. We also recognize that students come to the class at different levels. We strive to encourage our students at the same time we guide them and their thought processes.