Summer 2013/Fuller Online
ST511
Oden
ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES. Patrick Oden.
DESCRIPTION: The general objective of this course is to assist beginning theology students as they begin seminary studies. The course will provide that assistance through (1) an introduction to essential research methods and resources; (2) discussion of basic terms and approaches necessary for critical theological reflection; (3) general overview of the various main topics in seminary study; (3) honing effective written communication.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Understanding the foundations of research, writing, biblical studies, church history and theology enhances every aspect of ministry life and personal spirituality, as well as providing a strong beginning for continued training in every aspect of seminary education.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will (1) demonstrate an attitude of critical reflection on the various topics pursued in seminary education; (2) know and use the research resources available to them especially as found online through Hubbard Library and other websites; (3) be familiar with key terms, varieties of source material, diverse theological perspectives, and academic standards; (4) demonstrate the skills necessary to write a graduate level academic research paper.
COURSE FORMAT: The course involves reading, writing, advanced online resources orientation, and discussion facilitated through Moodle. The class will meet asynchronously on moodle.fuller.edu.
REQUIRED READING:
Daniels, Scott. The First 100 Days: A Pastor’s Guide. Beacon Hill Press, 2011. ISBN: 978-0834125544, Pub. Price $15.00 [224 pp.].
Fee, Gordon, and Douglas K. Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 978-0310246046, Pub. Price $17.00 [288 pp.].
Houghton, Peggy M., Timothy J. Houghton, Michele M. Pratt, and Kate L. Turabian. Turabian: The Easy Way! Baker College, 2009. ISBN: 978-0923568917, Pub. Price $11.00 [108 pp.].
Noll, Mark A. Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity. Baker Books, 2000. ISBN: 978-0801062117, Pub. Price $14.00 [352 pp.].
Pannenberg, Wolfhart. An Introduction to Systematic Theology. Eerdmans, 1991. ISBN: 978-0802805461, Pub. Price $14.00 [69 pp.].
Strunk, William, and E. B. White. The Elements of Style. 50th Anniversary ed. Pearson Longman, 2009. ISBN: 978-0205313426, Pub. Price $15.00 [128 pp.].
Additional other readings provided online and through course eReserves.
ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:
Weekly assignments designed to help students become familiar with research tools, writing and essentials of each topic (30%). 15 hours
Weekly forum discussions designed to assist in the comprehension of assigned readings and course material (20%). 80 hours
A research paper of 8-10 pages on a theological or historical topic (30%). 15 hours
A basic, open format final exam covering issues discussed through each of the ten weeks (20%). 1 hour
PREREQUISITES: Permission of the Director of Academic Advising. No auditors.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.
FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.