Spring 2020/Fuller Online

ST511

Woznicki

ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (4 Units: 160 hours). Christopher G. Woznicki

DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to equip beginning theology students with the competencies needed to succeed at Fuller Theological Seminary. Students will be introduced to basic theological concepts while sharpening the research and writing skills needed to excel in graduate-level studies.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Upon successful completion of this course students will have demonstrated the ability to (1) utilize critical thinking and analytical reading skills to evaluate doctrinal writings and arguments, (2) convey introductory knowledge of important theological topics and their relationship to the Christian life, (3) formulate their own theological positions In dialogue with diverse voices from the Christian tradition, (4) conduct focused research using library resources to produce a graduate level book review and research essay.

RELAIONSHIP TO PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES: ST511 introduces beginning students to the basic vocabulary, concepts, and significance of theological studies, while simultaneously training them in the research and writing skills necessary for graduate-level coursework. As such, the course implements the SOT PLO, “Students will have demonstrated capacities for historically informed theological and ethical reflection.”

COURSE FORMAT: This course will be conducted online on a ten-week schedule aligned with Fuller’s academic calendar for a total of 40 instructional hours, which is outlined below in the assignment and assessment section. Students are required to interact with the material, with each other, and with the instructor regularly through online discussions, reading, and other assignments that promote active learning.

REQUIRED READING: 895 pp. of required reading.

Adler, Mortimer J. and Charles Van Doren. How to Read a Book. Rev. ed. Simon & Schuster, 1972. ISBN: 978-0671212094, Pub. Price $18.00. [156 pp. assigned]. Available as an ebook from the Fuller Library.

Gonzalez, Justo. The Apostle's Creed for Today. Westminster John Knox, 2007. ISBN: 978-0664229337, Pub. Price $15.00 [100 pp. assigned]

Jones, Beth Felker. Practicing Christian Doctrine: An Introduction to Thinking and Living Theologically. Baker Academic, 2014. ISBN: 978-0801049330, Pub. Price $24.99. [240 pp. assigned] Available as an eBook from the Fuller Library.

Turabian, Kate L. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 9th ed. University of Chicago Press, 2018. ISBN: 978-0226430577, Pub. Price $18.00 [184 pp. assigned]

Yong, Amos. Learning Theology: Tracking the Spirit of Christian Faith. Westminster John Knox, 2018. ISBN: 978-0664263966, Pub. Price $30.00 [42 pp. assigned] Available as an eBook from the Fuller Library.

Additional readings provided online and through course eReserves. [173 pp. assigned]

RECOMMENDED READING:

Kibbe, Michael. From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research. IVP Academic, 2016. ISBN: 978-0830851317. Pub. Price $12.00

Vyhmeister, Nancey Jean. Your Guide to Quality Research Papers for Students of Religion and Theology. 3rd ed. Zondervan, 2009. ISBN: 978-0310514022. Pub. Price $24.99

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

1. 895 pp. of required reading [This assignment is related to learning outcome #1] [80 hours].
2. Weekly video lectures and presentations [This assignment is related to learning outcome #1] [8 hours].
3. 250-word weekly forum posts and 200-word weekly forum responses. Forum postings will be evaluated on three grounds: (1) by demonstrating that the student has closely read and digested the material, (2) by demonstrating clear writing and following the rules of proper grammar, and (3) evidencing insight into the subject matter. (25%) [This assignment is related to learning outcome #1-3] [18 hours].
4. Weekly research essay assignments that are designed to familiarize students with research tools, selecting a research topic, developing a thesis, and preparing a research essay. Students will be evaluated based on the quality and completion of the assignment (15%). [This assignment is related to learning outcome #4]. [16 hours].
5. 750 word personal reflection essay. The reflection paper will be evaluated on content, argument, clarity of contribution, and usefulness In the context of ministry (10%). [This assignment is related to learning outcome #2-3]. [4 hours].
6. 750 word book review. Students will be evaluated on the basis of clarity of content, argument, thesis, formatting, grammar/syntax, and evidence of deep engagement with the book (20%). [This assignment is related to learning outcome #1-4]. [8 hours].
7. 2,500 word research essay. Students will be evaluated on the basis of clarity of content, argument, thesis, formatting, grammar/syntax, use of sources, and careful thinking about the doctrine (30%). This assignment is related to learning outcome #1-4]. [26 hours].

PREREQUISITES: Permission of the Director of Academic Advising. No auditors.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.

NOTE: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. Textbook prices are set by publishers and are subject to change. Copyright 2019 Fuller Theological Seminary.