Fall 2011/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. 426 pages. ISBN: 9780671212094. Publ.Price: $16.99.

Barton, R. H. Sacred Rhythms. InterVarsity Press, 2006. 192 pages. ISBN: 978083083337. Publ.Price: $17.00.

Grenz, S., D. Guretzki, and C. F. Nordling. Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms. InterVarsity Press, 1999. 122 pages. ISBN: 9780830814497. Publ.Price: $8.00.

Migliore, Daniel L. Faith Seeking Understanding: An Introduction to Christian Theology. 2nd ed. Eerdmans, 2004. 457 pages. ISBN: 9780802827876. Publ.Price: $27.00.

Stone, Howard W., and James O. Duke. How to Think Theologically. 2nd ed. Augsburg, 2006. 152 pages. ISBN: 9780800638184. Publ.Price: $16.00.

Turabian, K. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 7th ed. Chicago University Press, 2007. 482 pages. ISBN: 9780226823379. Publ.Price: $17.00.

ASSIGNMENTS: (1) Weekly quizzes designed to test comprehension of assigned readings and theological vocabulary [10%]. (2) Weekly reading exercises and reflections [20%]. (3) Retreat and spiritual reflection exercises [15%]. (4) Class attendance and participation [10%]. (5) Exercises related to term paper [20%]. (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. (July 2011)