Spring 2001
ST511
Simmons
ST511: ORIENTATION TO THEOLOGICAL STUDIES. Laura K. Simmons.
DESCRIPTION:
- This course aims to assist students as they embark on graduate
study in theology and related disciplines. It will provide an introduction to
basic research/study methods and tools useful to beginning theology students.
It will also introduce students to theological language and basic doctrines. We
recommend the course be taken in a student's first seminary quarter.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
- Our ability to think independently and critically and interact
responsibly with theological sources and data enhances our preaching,
decision-making, character, and writing. Mastery of basic scholarly and
communication tools is vital to our credibility as ministers and leaders among
God's people.
COURSE FORMAT:
- This course involves reading, writing, a library orientation and
"theological scavenger hunt," small-group work, lecture, and discussion. Class
will meet on Thursdays from 6:30-9:20 p.m.
REQUIRED READING:
- Adler, Mortimer J. and Charles Van Doren. How to Read a
Book. Simon and Schuster, 1972.
- Grenz, Stanley, David Guretzki, and Cherith Fee Nordling. Pocket
Dictionary of Theological Terms. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1999.
- Hacker, Diana. A Writer's Reference. 4th ed. Boston/New York:
Bedford/St. Martin's, 1999.
- McGuire et al. The Internet Handbook for Writers, Researchers, and
Journalists. Guilford Publications, 2000. (Selections; available in the
bookstore.)
- Turabian, Kate. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and
Dissertations. University of Chicago Press, 1996.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Jewett, Paul K. God, Creation and Revelation: A Neo-Evangelical
Theology. Eerdmans, 1991.
- Strunk, W. and E. B. White. The Elements of Style. Allyn and Bacon,
2000.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Weekly short assignments designed to help students use various
research tools and the library. A term paper of 10-15 pages reflecting on a
theological topic of the student's choice. The term paper should contain
footnotes for all sources and a complete bibliography. Term papers
should be typed and double-spaced and are due during the 8th week of the
course.
PREREQUISITES:
- None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- Elective.
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- A brief final exercise will be given in class during week 10.