Fall 2013/Fuller Online

ST511

Alfaro

ST511: ORIENTACIÓN PARA ESTUDIOS TEOLÓGICOS [Orientation to Theological Studies].

Sammy Alfaro.

DESCRIPTION: This online course explores the nature of studying theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. It considers the functions and skills, as well as the frame of mind, required for getting the best possible results from a Fuller education and from any theological interaction. Focus is placed on the skills of reading, research, and writing. Fostering an attitude of “critical openness,” the course emphasizes listening, thinking, and responding, and doing so with intelligence and grace.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Christians’ understanding of theology, however diverse, and their ability to discuss it meaningfully with each other and the world deeply enhance the life of the Church of Jesus Christ. In order for the Church and the world to benefit from this discussion, Christian leaders need these basic skills for effective preaching, teaching, writing, and decision-making, as well as for developing their character and credibility. These are indispensable qualities for God’s servants.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, students should be able (1) to listen sympathetically; (2) to think critically; and (3) to interact clearly and graciously, in both oral and written form, as they encounter the wealth of varied theological perspective. These skills should be evident in the students’ ability (4) to prepare a well-designed research paper.

COURSE FORMAT: Conducted online, the ten weekly lessons align with Fuller’s academic calendar. The course involves reading, writing, orientation to libraries and other resources, and interactive discussion. Each week students and the instructor will interact with the material through journaling, threaded discussions, and web-based research.

REQUIRED READING:

Gonzalez, Justo L. Diccionario Manual Teológico. Vida, 2010. ISBN: 978-8482674827, Pub. Price $15.00 [100 pp. assigned].

Gonzalez, Justo L., and Zaida Maldonado Pérez. Introducción a la teología Cristiana. Abingdon, 2003. ISBN: 978-0687074273, Pub. Price $15.00 [159 pp.].

Ortografía, Lengua Española: Reglas y Ejercicios. Editorial de Larousse, 1998. ISBN: 978-9706078148, Pub. Price $9.00 [100 pp. assigned].

Vyhmeister, Nancy Weber. Manual de Investigación Teológica. Editorial Vida, 2009. ISBN: 978-0829755718, Pub. Price $14.99 [336 pp.].

Wright, N. T. El verdadero pensamiento de Pablo. Editorial CLIE, 2002. ISBN: 978-8482673158, Pub. Price $14.99 [208 pp.].

Various additional articles, “lectures,” and readings available online.

RECOMMENDED READING: Available in posted documents.

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

1. Reading of all material assigned in weekly lessons, to be completed as due.
2. Weekly discussion forums (10%).
3. Five bi-weekly quizzes (20%).
4. Short bi-weekly writing exercises [20% total] designed to assist in the writing of research paper: developing library & internet research skills (5%), creating an outline for a research paper (5%), learning to paraphrase quotations (5%), and writing footnotes & bibliographic references (5%).
5. One 2000-word research paper, due in stages throughout the term: first draft due in seventh week, final draft due in tenth week (30%).

6. Two critical book reviews (20%).

PREREQUISITES: Spanish. Basic computer, word-processing, and Internet skills. Permission of the Director of Academic Advising. No auditors.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.