Fall 2009/Pasadena
ST511
K. Murphy
ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES. Karen Murphy.
DESCRIPTION: The general objective of this course is to assist beginning
theology students as they embark on the adventure of seminary studies. It will
introduce them to the academic environment and ethos of Fuller Seminary and
specifically teach and augment the skills necessary to participate in and
thrive in that environment.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The ability to think independently,
interact critically, and communicate responsibly will enhance one's preaching,
teaching, decision-making, and writing, and will also develop character and
credibility, which are indispensable for servants among God's people.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will demonstrate the
ability (1) to read on the various levels of inspectional and analytical
reading; (2) to research a topic by using library resources and manage this
research throughout a quarter producing a graduate-level, 12-15 page research
paper. Students will also (3) become familiar with and discuss basic
theological, philosophical, and historical terminology traditionally associated
with seminary education; (4) be challenged to locate their own theological
tradition across the spectrum of Christian thought and engage in theological
reflection associated with various issues within Christian thought; and (5)
deepen their awareness of Christian spiritual practices in order to cultivate a
holistic rhythm of life critical for the success of any theological
venture.
COURSE FORMAT: The course involves reading, writing, library and resources
orientation, discussion, and lecture. The class will meet weekly for a
three-hour session.
REQUIRED READING:
- Adler, Mortimer J., and Charles Van Doren. How to Read a
Book. Simon & Schuster, 1972.
- Barton, R. H. Sacred Rhythms. InterVarsity Press, 2006.
- 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. 2nd
ed. Augsburg, 2006.
- Turabian, K. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses &
Dissertations. 7th ed. Chicago UP, 2007.
- Course Reader.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- 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.
- Vyhmeister, N. J. Quality Research Papers . . . Religion &
Theology. 2nd ed. Zondervan, 2008.
- 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:
- Jinkins, Michael. Invitation to Theology.
InterVarsity Press, 2001.
- Kinast, Robert L. What Are They Saying about Theological Reflection?
Paulist, 2000.
- Murphy, Nancey C. Reasoning and Rhetoric in Religion. Wipf and
Stock, 2001.
- Thielicke, Helmut. A Little Exercise for Young Theologians.
Eerdmans, 1962. Repr., 1992.
ASSIGNMENTS: (1) Weekly quizzes designed to test comprehension of assigned
readings and theological vocabulary [10%]. (2) Weekly reading exercises and
reflections [15%]. (3) Retreat and spiritual reflection exercises [20%]. (4)
Class attendance and participation [5%]. (5) Exercises related to term paper
[25%]. (6) A term paper of 12-15 pages reflecting on a theological topic [25%].
PREREQUISITES: Permission of the Director of Academic Advising. No audits.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.
This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design
but is subject to modification. (9/09)