Fuller Online
ST511: Fall 2008
Erickson/Spinks
ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (4 units).
Richard J. Erickson, Associate Professor of New Testament, and
Christopher Spinks, Adjunct Professor in Theology
DESCRIPTION: This Internet-based
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.
COURSE
OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: As a result of taking this course, students
should have increased ability (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’ increased ability (4) to
prepare a well-designed research paper.
RELEVANCE FOR 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.
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
·
Adler,
M. J., and C. Van Doren. How to Read a
Book. Revised edition. Simon & Schuster, 1972.
·
Grenz,
S. J., D. Guretzki, and C. F. Nordling. Pocket
Dictionary of Theological Terms. IVP, 1999.
·
Ross-Larson,
B. Edit Yourself: A Manual for Everyone
Who Works with Words. Norton, 1996.
·
Stone,
H. W., and J. O. Duke. How to Think
Theologically. 2nd ed.; Fortress, 2006.
·
Truss,
Lynne. Eats, Shoots and Leaves: A Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation.
·
Turabian,
K. A Manual for Writers of Research
Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 7th ed.;
·
Various
additional articles, "lectures," and readings available online.
RECOMMENDED
ASSIGNMENTS:
1.
2.
Seven
short weekly quizzes (11.6%).
3.
Short
weekly exercises based on and designed to aid comprehension of assigned
reading: threaded discussions (18%) and journaling (8%).
4.
Library
and Internet research skills development (10%).
5.
3000
to (maximum) 4000-word research paper, due in stages throughout the term: first
draft due in seventh week, final draft due in tenth week (33.3%).
6.
Final
Exam: due end of Finals Week (late submissions not accepted) (19%).
PREREQUISITES: Basic computer,
word-processing, and Internet skills. Permission of the Director of SOT, SIS,
and MAGL Academic Advising. No auditors.
RELATIONSHIP
TO CURRICULUM:
Elective.
FINAL
EXAMINATION:
Yes, due during finals week.
Updated July 2008