DESCRIPTION: The general objective of this course is to assist beginning theology students as they embark on the adventure of seminary studies. The course will provide that assistance through an introduction and orientation to (1) essential research and study methods and resources; (2) basic terms, doctrines, and thought necessary for theological reflection; (3) practice and use of methods resources and language for successful and effective communication, especially through the production of academic papers.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will enable the student to (1) better adopt an attitude of critical reflection on theological matters; (2) know and use the research resources available to them at a seminary library; (3) develop a systematic method for using research tools and applying them to a specific topic; (4) develop the skills necessary to write a graduate level academic research paper; (5) gain a basic understanding of major terms and theological perspectives as a foundation for subsequent seminary courses.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The ability to think independently, interact critically, and communicate responsibly should enhance preaching, teaching, decision-making, and writing, but it will also develop character and credibility, which are indispensable for servants among God's people.

COURSE FORMAT: The course involves reading, writing, advanced library and resources orientation, discussion and lecture. The class will meet weekly for three-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:

Adler, Mortimer J. and Charles Van Doren. How to Read a Book. Simon and Schuster, 1972.

Grenz, S., D. Guretzki, and C. F. Nordling. Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms. IVP, 1999.

Stone, Howard W. and James O. Duke. How to Think Theologically. Fortress, 1996.

Turabian, Kate. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 6th ed. University of Chicago Press, 1996.

Vyhmeister, N. J. Quality Research Papers for Students of Religion & Theology. Zondervan, 2001.

For further help with reading skills:

Clinton, J. Robert. Reading on the Run. Barnabas, 1996.

For further help with research and bibliographic format:

Alexander, Patrick H., et al., eds. The SBL Handbook of Style. Hendrickson, 1999.

Hacker, Diana. A Writer's Reference. 4th ed. Bedford/St. Martin's, 1999.

For further help with theological terms:

DeMoss, M. and J. E. Miller. Zondervan Dictionary of Bible & Theology Words. Zondervan, 2002.

Erickson, Millard J. The Concise Dictionary of Christian Theology. Rev. ed. Crossway, 2001.

McKim, Donald K. Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms. Westminster John Knox, 1996.

For further help with an introduction to theology and theological reflection:

Conyers, A. J. A Basic Christian Theology. Broadman & Holman, 1995.

Jinkins, Michael. Invitation to Theology. InterVarsity Press, 2001.

Kinast, Robert L. What Are They Saying about Theological Reflection? Paulist, 2000.

Thielicke, Helmut. A Little Exercise for Young Theologians. Eerdmans, 1962; repr., 1992.