Fuller Online
ST511: Fall 2010
Erickson

ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (4 units).
Richard J. Erickson, Associate Professor of New Testament.


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 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, indispensable qualities for God's servants.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
With successful completion of this course, students will 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 will 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:

Adler, M. J., and C. Van Doren. How to Read a Book. Rev. ed. Simon & Schuster, 1972. ISBN-13: 9780671212094. Pub. price: $16.99.

Grenz, S. J., D. Guretzki, and C. F. Nordling. Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms. IVP, 1999. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1449-7. Pub. price: $8.00.

Ross-Larson, B. Edit Yourself: A Manual for Everyone Who Works with Words. Norton, 1996. ISBN 978-0-393-31326-0. Pub. price: $13.95.

Stone, H. W., and J. O. Duke. How to Think Theologically. 2nd ed. Fortress, 2006. ISBN 9780800638184. Pub. price: $16.00.

Truss, Lynne. Eats, Shoots and Leaves: A Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation. Gotham, 2003. ISBN 9781592402038. Pub. price: $12.00.

Turabian, K. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 7th ed. University of Chicago, 2007. ISBN: 9780226823379. Pub. price: $17.00.

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. 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 Academic Advising. No auditors.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes, due during finals week.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (July 2010)