I had this course at Southern Seminary with Dr. Fuller. This is by far the best course in beginning Hebrew that I have seen in a long time. Dr. Fuller's method drastically reduces rote memorization. As far as the cursive, Dr. Fuller gives a clear explanation that each professor is different in both presentation and method. I have used different grammars in the past, but none of them are as thorough as this. Also, I would like to add that Dr. Fuller has a passion for seeing ministers and believers grow in their love for God and His word. I can assure you that if you take the time to really study this method, you will find it is one of the best out there. Although he does not use powerpoint, it must be noted that this was originally designed as a one year Hebrew course for Seminary students.

I respectfully disagree with the above poster. First, the professor explains why his writing doesn't look like the book. His explanation makes sense and his writing is not hard to follow. I have benefited greatly from the books and DVD combination, and I am far better prepared for the Hebrew Bible than people who use other textbooks. The DVD may not be high-tech, but it is certainly effective in that the material is taught properly. Dr. Fuller has done a wonderful job with his books and DVD. If you're serious about learning Hebrew, this is the way to go.

I've just begun using this package and quite frankly, I'm somewhat disappointed - especially with the DVD-based lessons. Here's why: 1.) Instead of Powerpoint (or even an UPRIGHT whiteboard), the teacher sits and writes on a whiteboard plate and the camera alternates between him and the whiteboard (distracting). 2.) Worse, the way he forms many of his letters bears marginal - if any - resemblance to what the letters look like in the book. All of which he brushes aside with a "you've-got-to-get-used-to-the-way-your-teacher-writes" comment. How about the teacher forming the letters properly to begin with?!? 3.) The vowels are presented in a somewhat haphazard manner with a lot of "remember this" but little explanation as to why. 4.) The teacher's presentation is stiff and mechanical. I hope Pratico and Van Pelt produce a DVD-based course because their material is far better organized, intuitive, and offers additional insight along the way. I've waited a long time for a DVD-based beginning Hebrew course and was excited when this came along, but from what I've seen thus far, it needs help. The teachers allude to a follow-on Intermediate-level course currently in development; I hope they read this; learn to loosen up and smile a bit and show some excitement about what they're teaching; join the 21st century in video presentation; and most of all, ditch the "cursive" and "hybridized" (i.e., half block; half cursive) letter presentation. BOTTOM LINE: a 5.0 rating for the overall idea of an integrated DVD-based course; a 0.5 for video presentation; and a 0.5 for enthusiasm for subject material. A BETTER BET: Call/write Zondervan and voice your support for DVD-based lessons paralleling their already excellent Grammar, Workbook, Vocabulary Cards, and Audio Vocabulary CD.