DESCRIPTION: This course examines the practical and theological dimensions of technology and media as they relate to worship leadership and congregational formation. Special attention will be given to developing a theology of media and technology, understanding the shaping power of media, and developing a practical vocabulary and skill-set in a variety of technologies as tools for ministry.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will (1) gain the skills to theologically reflect on the purpose, formational power, positive uses, and hazards, of media and technology in ministry; (2) understand the proper and effective use of a variety of technologies, including audio and visual systems (microphones, sound boards, PowerPoint, projection, use of video clips), and online resources (web-pages, e-mail marketing, video streaming); (3) demonstrate the proper and effective use of those technologies in the context of ministry.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: As media and technology pervade present day culture, including the church, they increasingly present themselves as significant influences upon ministry and congregational formation. This course will teach basic skills regarding media and technology, and provide a basis for theological reflection regarding media in ministry settings.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet once a week for three-hour sessions. Classes will involve lecture and demonstration, small group activities and projects, technical instruction seminars, and field trips to ministry and industry sites.

REQUIRED READING:

Andriacco, Dan. Screen Saved: Peril and Promise of Media in Ministry. Saint Anthony Messenger Press and Franciscan, 2001.

Hipps, Shane. The Hidden Power of Electronic Culture. Zondervan, 2005.

Mitchell, Jolyon and Sophia Marriage. Mediating Religion: Conversations in Media, Religion & Culture. T. & T. Clark, 2003.

Schultze, Quentin. High-Tech Worship? Using Presentational Technologies Wisely. Baker Books, 2004.

Troeger, Thomas H. Ten Strategies for Preaching in a Multimedia Culture. Abingdon, 1996.

Wilson, Len. Digital Storytellers: The Art of Communicating the Gospel in Worship. Abingdon, 2001.

1. Reading of assigned materials and preparation of a 2-3 page reflection paper on each text (25%).

2. Church media reflections and theological critiques on the use of media technology at three different services (15%).

3. Student presentations (and written evaluations) based on theological critique and technological demonstration of PowerPoint in the context of worship (20%).

4. Final group project on the creation of a website incorporating various course media technologies and themes (30%).

5. Attendance and participation (10%).