DESCRIPTION: The course is designed to assist beginning theology students as they embark on the adventure of seminary studies. Students will be introduced to the academic environment and ethos of Fuller Seminary, with particular focus on developing skills of research and writing necessary to participate and thrive in this environment.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The course will enhance the student's ability to think critically, formulate one's own theological positions, understand and engage other theological positions, and communicate responsibly. These skills should enhance one's preparation for preaching, teaching, decision-making, and writing. The course will also address the issue of academic integrity and so challenge one to 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 use critical thinking and analytical reading skills to evaluate writings; (2) to conduct focused research by using library resources and manage this research throughout a quarter producing a graduate-level, 12-15-page research paper. Students will also (3) be able to define important theological, philosophical, and historical terminology traditionally associated with seminary education; (4) demonstrate introductory knowledge of theological methods within Christian thought; and (5) formulate and locate their own theological tradition and positions across the spectrum of Christian thought.

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.

Elder, Linda, and Richard Paul. A Miniature Guide to Critical Thinking Concepts and Tools. The Foundation for Critical Thinking, 2001.

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

Kibbe, Michael. "From Topic to Thesis: An Introduction to Theological Research." 2009.

Turabian, K. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 7th ed. Chicago UP, 2007.

Course Reader.

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.

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

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.

Stone, Howard W., and James O. Duke. How to Think Theologically. 2nd ed. Augsburg, 2006.

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