SOUTH POINT — All it takes is a computer, a small video camera and a hectic schedule. Those are the basic requirements to take advantage of an innovation at Tri-State Bible College for the new year.

The college at South Point has launched its first virtual classroom as it teaches the Book of Romans.

“We have been working on this process for about a year, researching and testing,” Jack Finch, president of Tri-State, said. “We have a lot of non-traditional students and based on time and economics we are trying to reach even internationally through this process.”

The course, which runs through mid-May, meets every Monday at 7 p.m. Although the class started this Monday, registration remains open through Jan. 21.

“People work. They have things at their house they need to give attention to,” Finch said. “This places you in the classroom. I am a big believer in the written text and being in the classroom.”

The technology used is similar to the Skype medium of transmitting live visuals via a computer.

“We have contracted with a company that allows text or word documents to be put on the screen,” Finch said. “It is a much higher-grade of technology.”

Students must have a computer that either has an internal camera or must purchase a camera that can be attached to the monitor.

Besides individual students, the bible college will also transmit the classes to its satellite campus in Akron and hopes area churches will also want to participate.

“A lot of times churches can assemble small groups or study groups. Most churches have the technology,” Finch said. “They can come into the convenience of a church room they are accustomed to with the folks they know and enjoy the session together.”

The Book of Roman was chosen because it is a study course popular on campus, Finch said.

“We want to reach out and make available to those who have a desire to study God’s word,” he said.