Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
for
THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION
FOREWORD
I feel honoured to write a few words to commend this important contribution to the
discussion of an appropriate curriculum for theological education. I also appreciate the hard
work put into this booklet, which though small, like precious things which are kept in small
packets, contains a great deal of solid and useful information for those involved in theological
education. What is meant by “Curriculum” has been clearly defined and what might be
contained in a theological curriculum has been fully described.
The discussion is divided into three sections. The first is concerned with the situation
in which we find ourselves at present, as reflected by certain educational models. These are
followed by a brief but comprehensive Curriculum of Theological Education expertly
outlined by the compiler. The second section presents an honest and intelligent evaluation of
different models that might be adopted, together with a Biblical perspective of Christian
learning and instruction.* This leads to the third section describing ways to construct a
curriculum using principles reached in the previous sections.
This booklet without doubt gives a sense of direction to our theological training and
should help us to ensure a good balance in our teaching. Indeed I feel proud of the effort of
the compiler and acknowledge his ability and commitment to theological education. With
these comments I commend this booklet to all who are engaged in theological education with
the hope that it may bring about a revolution in our approach to this whole area of training
people for ministry.
March 1995
* Placed as an Appendix in the Revised Edition of February 1997 and printed separately from 1999 onward.
3
PREFACE
TO THE THIRD EDITION
Since the publication of the second edition, Gujranwala Theology Seminary has
experienced two significant changes. First its Library has been refurbished to provide a
modern environment for study. More importantly its volumes have been re-organised under
the Progressive Classification system advocated in this manual, thus allowing what is “said”
in the classroom to be easily accessed and “read” in the Library reading room. The shelf
arrangements thus follow the classification of curriculum subjects exemplified in the
following pages.
Another addition is the concept of a small personal library constituting a “home” Bible
School, the authors being the “faculty”. Thus The Reading List offers a core self-study
programme equivalent to a three year study period at the Seminary. (It does not, of-course,
claim to provide the practical training and communal experience that a residential programme
offers.)
Appendix I shows how a course on a particular subject can be quickly outlined from a
scanning of the Progressive Classification menu. Finally a Check-List is offered for
preliminary self-evaluation of any institution involved in basic Theological Education.
It is hoped that this edition, improved by practical testing in Seminary life and enlarged by
additional material, will prove a help and stimulation to those engaged in the crucial work of
preparing God’s people for ministry in His Church and the world around us.
Paul Burgess
June 2003
4
PREFACE
TO THE SECOND EDITION
Over the past two years since these papers were first presented, the value of the whole
exercise of re-thinking curriculum from first principles has been recognised. In particular the
Progressive Classification listing has been well received as a helpful reference document
providing a “menu” from which to make selections for working curricula. Indeed, it
developed a life of its own, being continuously revised (with copies distributed to enquirers)
up till the publication of this second edition of “Curriculum for Theological Education”
where it now appears as a separate document in the Appendices.
The original material of the total workshop, by the nature of the conference at which it
was first presented, was somewhat of a rag-bag of ideas and charts. It has now all be carefully
sifted and re-organised, much of the material being re-located as appendices to give the core
material a clearer sense of direction.
Many theological institutes are engaged in, or seriously considering, the task of
integrating their fields of study to ensure a more holistic approach to theological learning. The
exercise encouraged in the pages of this booklet pre-supposes this intention, but represents
only the preparatory steps necessary before full integration can be attempted. For the whole
must be surveyed before any attempts at integrating our students’ learning can be truly
holistic. It is important to clarify goals and priorities before weaving a complex texture of
learning materials taken from different departments and disciplines.
Publication of this second edition happily coincides with the Silver Jubilee
celebrations of the Open Theological Seminary (formerly the Pakistan Committee for
Theological Education by Extension, an organisation born at this Seminary). Theological
training has developed in many ways in recent years in this country, not least in the
recognition given to the role of laity in the ministry of the church and the acceptance of
women students to study theology alongside men training for the ministry.
We live in a technically stimulating age, as evidenced by the fact that this booklet was
prepared and made ready for reproduction on two small machines together smaller than a
single Library reference book! The entire contents of the Seminary Library (approaching
20,000 volumes) could today, in theory, be recorded on a few discs and carried in the pocket.
Such is the pace of advance. We do well to come to terms with it and plan for the future if we
are to be good stewards of the heritage God has entrusted to us, alert to the Spirit moving in
Christ’s church and keen to spread the news of Christ’s kingdom in our land. It is hoped this
booklet will, under God, forward that process.
Paul Burgess
February 1997
5
PREFACE
The forum’s first birthday gathering was, as with the original meeting, hosted by the
United Bible Training Centre. Gujranwala Theological Seminary, whose students’ wives are
regularly taught by the staff of U.B.T.C., had the privilege of presenting three Seminars on
Curriculum for Theological Education. The material following presents the revised version of
the papers given and ideas arising from the ensuing discussion.
Because of the discursive nature of the gathering the presentation was largely inter-
active. This format has been preserved in the hope that some other institutions may find it
helpful not only to read the papers but also to carry out some of the exercises contained the
text.
In particular we commend for reflection the Classification list in the Appendix
together with the discussion of the four Learning Domains presented in Part 2. (The diagram
for the latter “came” to the compiler of this document overnight between sessions and
stimulated much discussion. The list, on the other hand, was the product of much research and
refinement arising out of initial class discussion with students.)
Thanks are due to those who have read these papers and offered suggestions for
improvement. In particular Professor Neil Foster offered a searching critique and his helpful
insights on modelling appear as an Appendix. To my son, Graham Burgess, is also due thanks
for the many hours of his school holidays spent computerising the material and patiently
entering in many revisions. Mr Marcus Fauchiger, Mrs Sally Davis and Mr Tom McCulloch
all contributed printing facilities at critical moments in the production. The compiler,
however, must take responsibility for any errors, or obscurities, as well as for the general
content of these papers.
Paul Burgess,
February 1995
6
CONTENTS
PART 1. UNPACKING OUR LUGGAGE
Present Concerns . . . . . . . . 9
A Curriculum Check-List . . . . . . . 10
Western Influences on Curriculum . . . . . . 11
Defining “Curriculum” . . . . . . . 18
TYPES of LEARNING – Learning About Learning Domains: . . 19
Knowing and Doing . . . . . . 19
Ministerial Formation: Being . 20
Apollos: the Need for Understanding.. . . . . 21
Combining all 4 Domains: The Pyramid Model of Learning . . 22
Clarifying our Educational Objectives. . . . . 22
What are our GOALS? What are we trying to achieve? . . 23
MODES of LEARNING: Formal, non-formal, informal . . . 24
LEVELS of LEARNING – Spiral Learning . . . . . 25
COMPETENCIES PROFILE – What end results do we hope for?. . 26
CONSTRAINTS . . . . . . . . 27
APPENDICES
Construction Tools
A. THE TASK of CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT: Chart of the OVERALL PICTURE 47
B. SUMMARY of SUBJECTS: PRIORITIES CHECK-LIST . . . 48
C. APPORTIONING RELATIVE “WEIGHT” to each COURSE. . . . 50
Examples
D. A SEMINARY CURRICULUM: RELATIVE WEIGHTING of COURSES. . 52
E. A CURRICULUM SCHEDULE: . . . . . . 54
F. 3 YEAR TRAINING PLAN ( Indian example) . . . . . 55
G. A BEGINNER’S SCHOOL (Starting from Core TEXT BOOKS) . . 56
The “PROGRAMME” . . . . . . . 57
H. THE READING LIST: A Core Self-Study Programme . . . 58
Reflections
M. PASTORAL OBJECTIVES Bible Study . . . . . 72
N. WESTERN MODELS Critique . . . . . . . 73
O. Essay on MODELLING – Neil Foster . . . . . . 74
P. TOWARDS A THEOLOGY OF TRAINING METHODS – Robert Ferris. . 78
Q. TAIL- PIECE - A Fable . . . . . . . . 79
Survey
R. EVALUATION CHECK-LIST of AN INSTITUTION . . .80
8
The “journey” analogy suggests also that, before we start on our way, we should first check
our “destination”, the dictionary definition of which is: “the pre-determined end of a journey; the end
or purpose for which something is created.” What is the ultimate purpose of Theological Education?
To what pre-determined end do we plan our curricula?
Note: You might find it helpful to write short notes answering the questions in the discussion boxes
that occur throughout the manual. These reflections could then be shared with a colleague for
discussion.
DISCUSSION
What do you consider is the ultimate purpose of Theological Education?
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A CURRICULUM CHECK-LIST
It is not easy to get a balanced view of what is being taught in a particular programme of
education unless some thought is also given to what is not being taught. This can be quite illuminating
as we all tend to assume the sufficiency of our own efforts. A comprehensive list of topics is needed
against which we can measure the range of our own educational work.
The “PROGRESSIVE CLASSIFICATION”, printed separately, provides an extensive list
of possible topics for inclusion in a total curriculum. This can be used in two ways:
• As a check-list to identify what is currently already covered by the curriculum of your
particular institution or programme;
• As a resource for providing ideas for additional subjects that might be considered for
future inclusion in your curriculum.
Note: This classification, which is not exhaustive, is not meant to represent the actual curriculum of any institution, least
of all to provide a blue-print for some imaginary ideal syllabus. Rather it offers the opportunity to select from a
classified “menu” of subjects. Thus a new course or programme can be constructed or a current curriculum
revised. It thus represents not the course itself, but suggested ingredients for a course.
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What significant areas, in your view, have been shown up as being covered
inadequately?
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Are there any particular fields that could be dropped altogether? Which? Why?
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How balanced do you consider your present curriculum to be for your purposes?
Very Quite Not very Not at all
10
* “A visit to seminary libraries in many two-thirds world countries reveals a sad lack in this category.”
(- Dr Lois McKinney, TEE Workshop, Gujranwala, Pakistan)
When we look more closely at many local residential institutions of theological education, we soon
notice also:
• a Western style in the academic structure of these training programmes.
(For a fuller critique of the Western educational model see Appendix K.)
This leads us into Part 2 where we evaluate different ways of constructing a curriculum for theological
education.
But before we do that, let us reflect on how much this relates to our own situation. (See the
next Discussion box on the page following.)
11
Discuss the following with your colleagues (or simply note down your own reactions to these
questions):
DISCUSSION
What are the three most crucial training problems met in your own institution?
i) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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ii) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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iii) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Do they relate to any of the problems outlined above? Or do they arise from more local
difficulties (culture, attitudes, structures, etc)?
i) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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ii) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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iii) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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12
One is left wondering whether such training left any opportunity for asking questions or for
the discussion of issues raised by the lecturer’s talks.
* By way of contrast, the four terms of missionary training given to the present writer amounted to over 46 weeks.
Both training experiences were offered in the same city in Britain to people going to work in the same institution
in the same foreign country in the same period! Approach varies, it seems, not according to the job to be done,
but rather according to the ethos of the sending agency.
DISCUSSION
What are the advantages of the “minimal” approach to training?
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What are some of the disadvantages?
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DOCTOR OF MINISTRY:
World Christianity Track for Missionaries at -------------- SEMINARY
Provides Flexibility in Scheduling.
We also offer a separate track for pastors. M. Div. or equivalent required.
What does this suggest about the model of theological curriculum on offer here?
First, it suggests that we have entered the world of the racecourse. There is a stiff course
(called a “track”) to be followed by those taking part; Perhaps there is also an element of competition
hinted at - which participants will complete their “track” first? Certainly there are entrance hurdles to
be passed before the course can even be attempted (e.g. that essential M. Div.!). And no doubt some
form of academic training for the big event is probably advisable before attempting to write the
doctorate.
But are there not also some serious limitations?
Consider first the implied priorities of the advertisement. It appears to be concerned foremost
with the needs of those expected to take part. What this model provides is “Flexibility in Scheduling”.
Might we not have first expected some indication of the field of studies to be covered by the course?
Instead we can only deduce the course subject from the labels attached: “Ministry…World
Christianity”. And which is the aspect most important to the prospective candidate? Undoubtedly it is
the doctorate! (“DOCTOR OF MINISTRY” - printed as the heading in bold capitals!)
We note also that the composers of the advertisement also seem interested in certain internal
caste distinctions (“missionaries” versus “pastors”, and the hierarchy of Doctor of Ministry over
Master of Divinity). No indication is given, however, of the relevance of the “track” to the
contribution that their graduates might be expected to make to the world outside!
Let’s reflect again on the implications of this approach:
DISCUSSION
Degrees are offered as evidence of a person having undertaken satisfactorily a particular
course of study. What are the advantages of such a system?
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What are the disadvantages? (There are other ways of learning!)
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So do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
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CATEGORIES of RELEVANCE
One way of looking at the relevancy of a course is to view it in terms of its Theological,
Spiritual, Practical, Evangelistic and Educational relevance.
Theologically we ask how a course informs the mind, not just to think about God, but also to
encourage such an understanding of God’s nature, actions, character, person and “ways” generally that
the student experiences and so truly knows God for him or herself.
This leads to the second category, the spiritual dimension of what is being learned through the
course. Here the heart must be warmed to increase a personal love for God, a devotion that can only
be nurtured through the ministry of the Holy Spirit simply because this involves a spiritual dimension.
The third category involves the will and concerns practical obedience to Jesus as Lord. This
practical level of curriculum relevancy is about training students as disciples of Jesus and is not to be
confused with meeting the expectations congregations may have concerning their ministers’ abilities
to perform this or that function in the life of the congregation – the skills of performance.
A course may also be evaluated according to how relevant it is to the evangelistic mission of
the church. Does it equip people to witness to the gospel and ultimately make disciples of the nations?
This evangelistic dimension asks: will you be able as a result of this course to share the Gospel with
others more effectively (as distinct from serving the Church better)?
Finally there is an educational relevance that needs to be considered. Will this course equip
students to teach their congregations? Will they be able to expound God’s Word, bringing their hearers
so in contact with God that they are compelled to respond to His call and will for their daily living -
rather than preach moral homilies, offer pious platitudes, deliver philosophical lectures, or simply
provide word and background studies of a text?
It is interesting to find a similar range of “categories of relevancy” in the Great Commission
given by Jesus to his disciples:
All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations [evangelistic],
baptising them [spiritual? practical?] in the name of the Father and of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them [educational] to obey [practical] everything I have commanded you.
And surely I am with you always [spiritual], to the every end of the age.
(Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
EXERCISE
Construct a short curriculum for a group of your own choice that involves all five
categories of relevancy. For each category list two or three subjects from the
CLASSIFICATION table.
Theological: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spiritual: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Practical: -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evangelistic: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Educational: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15
Islamics ................................................................................................................................
• .
•
• .
COMMUNICATION .............................................................................................................
• .
• .
• .
Homiletics …..…………………………………………………………….……………….
• .
• .
• .
Missiology ………..………………………………………………………………………..
• .
• .
• .
CHURCH HISTORY ……….……………………………………………….………………
• Understand how both God’s grace & His judgement work together amongst His
people
• Compare historical models of belief and behaviour with today’s church life.
• Understand your own Christian heritage and discover the roots of your own church.
Historical Theology.……….………………………………………………………………………..
• .
• .
• .
PRACTICAL THEOLOGY
Discipleship …………………………………………………………………………………
• .
• .
• .
Liturgical Theology / Worship ……………………………………………………………
• .
• .
• .
17
Self-development …………………………………………………………………………..
• .
• .
• .
CHRISTIAN ETHICS
Moral Theology…………………………………………………………………………….
• .
• .
• .
Environmental Theology ………………………………………………………………….
• .
• .
• .
Social Theology ……………………………………………………………………………
• .
• .
• .
EDUCATION
Study Methods …………………………………………………………………………….
• .
• .
• .
Christian Education ………………………………………………………………………
• .
• .
• .
PASTORAL THEOLOGY
Shepherding the sheep (as individuals) ………………………………………………….
• .
• .
• .
Leading the church (as a body) ……………………………………………………………
• .
• .
• .
18
DEFINING “CURRICULUM”
Some may argue that our “luggage” contains things that are not strictly “curriculum” subjects
but are rather the more general concerns of a “training programme”: as such they may rightly appear
on our educational agenda, but not as part of any curriculum list.
During the conference that originated this paper, our family discussed this very point at home.
My 17-year-old son informed us that by the word “curriculum” was meant “everything that went into a
particular subject taught at school”. His mother responded: “That’s not right; the school curriculum is
the list of all subjects taught at your school.” I then argued that “Curriculum” means all the activities
that go on in a school, including the various courses taught in the classroom. To resolve our family
argument we turned to Collins English Dictionary and read under “curriculum” the following
definitions:
“1. A course of study in one subject at school or college.
2. A list of all the courses of study offered by school or college.
3. Any programme or plan of activities.”
Apparently we were all correct in our family! Now perhaps you should join in the discussion:
DISCUSSION
What difference does it make to our training programme if we think of curriculum in
terms of:
Definition 1? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Definition 2? -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Definition 3? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Observation: Theological Curriculum is not only about THEOLOGY.
It is about TRAINING EXPERIENCES also.
Knowing or Doing?
The fundamental emphasis of many Western models of theological education is on knowing.
The over-riding question asked of its curricula is:
“What is really necessary for the students to know in order to complete this course and fulfil
the expectations that such an academic programme creates?”
But what is the purpose of Theological Education? Once those who have been trained reach
graduation and all the trophies have been handed out, what will be the needs that these graduates have
to meet in their congregation in particular and in the community in general? How well will our three or
four year programme have prepared them for their work outside in the real world? The question now
becomes:
“What do the students need to be able to do in order to be able to fulfil their calling as ministers?”
20
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Curriculum Manual 20
MINISTERIAL FORMATION
< Functional Domain Affective Domain > Increasingly today those who are
responsible for theological education are
SKILLS FORMATION becoming concerned with what has been
termed “ministerial formation”, that is,
the spiritual development of those being
trained. Indeed often this is the area
what how how where the students themselves experience
most disappointment after they arrive at
Seminary or Bible College. They come in
to to to great anticipation of somehow finding a
spiritual oasis for their thirsty souls,
but find instead all the marks of the
KNOW DO BE world that they thought would be left
outside!
This has been the experience of the monk
INSTRUCTION and hermit down the ages. Yet that does
not absolve us from being concerned with
the spiritual formation of our students –
Cognitive Domain > what is usually called the affective
domain. This is the part of the training
that aims to affect the behaviour of the
Diagram 2. student as his / her character is moulded
by close discipleship of Jesus and as
attitudes become more Christ-like.
We must seek to be agents of
change as we show our students how to minister to their people in such a way that the lives as well as
the faith of their congregations are radically altered to express God’s Kingdom values and
commitments.
It is here that good modelling demonstrated by teachers has the greatest influence. (See Prof.
Neil Foster’s article in Appendix L.) But such modelling should be reinforced by activities found in the
curriculum.
So we now have three domains (See diagram 2): the cognitive domain of instruction, the
functional domain of skill acquisition. and the affective domain concerned with the spiritual formation
of the student. Thus, as well as coming to know many things and learning how to do the work to which
(s)he is called, the student reflects on how to be a man or woman of God.
Example of a learning objective in the affective domain:
“I came to Seminary to become a pastor who cares about his people’s economic, social,
political and religious problems.”
(- Student’s response to the question: “Why did you come to Seminary?”)
These three educational domains each have their own appropriate mode of learning: formal
study (course materials, books and lectures) in the cognitive domain; informal modelling in the
affective domain; and non-formal practice and reflection (fieldwork) in the functional domain.
DISCUSSION
Which of these three domains is most neglected and why? ------------------------------------------------
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Curriculum Manual 21
So what is really needed in theological education? Should not all four learning domains be catered for,
especially where students train and live together in a college community.
Curriculum Manual 22
DISCUSSION
Write four educational objectives using a verb from each of the domain boxes above:
K. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
S. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Curriculum Manual 23
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Identify one major area of understanding that needs to be developed during training:
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What steps can we take to include all the learning domains when reviewing our curriculum and
courses?
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Note: A summary of this section, together with further examples of its application, can be found in Appendix A.
Curriculum Manual 24
MODES of LEARNING
As educationally we have identified several fields (domains) of learning, equally we must be
aware of several modes (or ways) of learning – termed formal, non-formal and informal.
Formal learning takes place in an environment where grades, classes, examinations, written
work and other academic requirements are emphasised.
Non-formal learning is equally well organised, but the purposeful study combines fieldwork
with dialogue, evaluation and reflection, and emphasises the practical purposes of a course. Students
placed under local leaders as their apprentices (e.g. curates in Anglican type churches) are learning
non-formally from their elders as they get the reactions of their more experienced colleagues to their
own stumbling efforts.
Informal learning occurs as a consequence of the ethos of the training institution, the quality
of community life where students and staff can inter-act, the latter having the role of models as well as
mentors. Students learn from such mentors by absorbing their insights and whole approach to
ministry.
Different modes of learning can be used in any domain. The challenge for the teacher (and
his / her educational institution) is to use the appropriate mode(s) for each subject and to plan a
curriculum that not only covers the most relevant subjects in each domain, but also makes use of a
variety of modes in each domain.
Try the next exercise with a colleague or group of colleagues. Brainstorming might be helpful as a preliminary
activity before selecting the examples that might prove most significant for your programme of training.
DISCUSSION
Can you think of an informal way, and a non-formal way of teaching one subject (of
your own choice) in each domain?
Informal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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If learning does not end at graduation, or at the end of a course, in what ways (if any!)
does our curriculum encourage people to learn for themselves (not necessarily the same
as learning by themselves)?
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The next section deals with levels of learning and advocates a policy of Spiral Learning. It is
presented in diagrammatic form and concludes with two Discussion questionsl
Curriculum Manual 25
SPIRAL LEARNING
AN EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY OF CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
How we might view the structure of our total programme of Theological Education.
AN EXAMPLE
Thirty Courses
< Degree Level
CHURCH LEADERSHIP
(Conceptual,
Arguing a
Case)
Twenty Courses
DISCIPLESHIP
DISCUSSION
What are the advantages of applying the principle of Spiral Learning to curriculum planning?
What constraints might it also put upon curriculum construction?
Curriculum Manual 26
DISCUSSION
Take one group at a time and decide what level of learning (Certificate, Diploma, Degree)
ought to be expected of each of the four competencies listed. Then write an example of one
appropriate educational/training objective for each competency.
Note: The dominant learning domain (s) are indicated in the L/H margin.
Group A
K/U/D Expound clearly 20 major biblical doctrines as they relate to God’s plan of salvation.
U/D Know how to interpret the different genres of Scripture.
B Lead a life marked by personal holiness and devotion to God.
U Know how to distinguish spiritual gifts from natural talents.
Group B
U/D Know how to use their natural leadership styles in church life.
B A developing maturity in their walk with God and dealings with others.
B/U Show practical compassion for people in need.
K/U/D Apply significant lessons of church history to today’s church life, service and witness.
Group C
U/K Understand the problems and opportunities of local church life.
B Demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit in significant areas of their life.
U/B/D Appreciate their own strengths and weaknesses in ministry to others.
B Demonstrate integrity and consistent honesty in their personal dealings.
Group D
B Demonstrate a servant’s heart in relationship to others.
U/D Know how to minister across-culture.
D/U Demonstrate conflict resolution skills in church and community life.
D/U/B/K Enable a congregation to worship God in spirit and in truth.
Group E
B/U/K Act courageously in ways consistent with biblical values.
U Understand the cultural, social and moral issues in their contemporary situation.
B/D Exercise spiritual disciplines in daily life.
D/U Demonstrate developing skills of evangelism in the local church’s outreach.
Group F
D/U Demonstrate management skills in a significant Christian ministry.
B Take effective initiative in enabling others to minister and grow.
D/U/B Demonstrate sound vision in the leadership of a Christian community or organization.
D/U/K Demonstrate equipping, recruiting and mentoring skills.
Group G
D/U/K Exercise effective preaching and teaching skills.
B/U/D Demonstrate shepherding skills in a complex pastoral situation.
B Have a teachable spirit and an ongoing desire to grow in the things of the Spirit.
D/U Exercise communication and listening skills in congregational life.
Curriculum Manual 27
CONSTRAINTS
Below are listed some constraints commonly experienced in Christian Institutions. Evaluate the
most pressing in your situation and add any further constraints that come to mind.
STUDENTS
………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………..
FACULTY
Availability (enough to cover all subjects / training exercises)
Time commitment (full-time, part-time, other commitments taking priority)
Experience and knowledge of the subject / field
Willingness to study further / a new area in order to cover a subject / field
Modeling (image presented to the students to imitate)
Level of care for students
Concern for maintenance of discipline
Degree of initiative in developing new ideas
Concern for appropriate educational methods used to teach subjects
…………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………..
TEACHING MATERIALS
…………………………………………………………………………………..
Availability of text-books
Availability of Library books (accessibility, gaps in certain areas)
Use of copying facilities (for what purpose?)
Journals for Faculty (for book reviews, new ideas)
……………..………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………
Curriculum Manual 28
DISCUSSION
List 10 COMPETENCIES that you and your colleagues consider ESSENTIAL for the
work for which you are preparing your students. Add the appropriate
LEARNING DOMAINS for each
1. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thinking now of the CONSTRAINTS that apply to your programme’s goals and the
situation in which you have to achieve those goals, can you create (and
describe below) some NON-TRADITIONAL kinds of LEARNING
EXPERIENCES that would enable you to develop the COMPETENCIES
you have identified above? (These should not include class-room and
Library work.)
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Curriculum Manual 29
When the time comes to re-assemble our “luggage” for the journey ahead, the first question,
surprisingly, is not: “what shall we include?” but rather: “how can we achieve a good balance in our
selection of course subjects?” We have to resist the temptation to try and include everything that
seems immediately desirable.
Over the years there have been many different approaches to the construction of a theological
curriculum, including the evolutionary method of simply allowing a curriculum to grow unplanned
as it accumulates subjects offered by each new addition to the teaching body. In this latter process
“weaker” offerings die a natural death as they are replaced by more vigorous courses. But even the
strong courses are liable to be neglected and ultimately omitted altogether when their custodian who
first developed them moves on.
Some approaches to curriculum administration are more planned. They include the following, each
with its own strengths and weaknesses:
The aim here is to fit into the students’ period of residence as conveniently as possible all the
subjects which their teachers wish to teach them. This approach is primarily teacher orientated,
and starts with the pragmatic problem of “who is available to teach our students now?” The
administration lists those subjects thought worthy of being taught and that appeal to the teachers’
interests. A selection is then made from the curriculum CLASSIFICATION list (or something like
it) to find out what might match the concerns of the faculty. Everyone is happy because the
students presume that they have the most motivated teachers for the subjects chosen in this way.
But how balanced is the resulting curriculum?
This approach aims to fit into the timetable as much of a comprehensive curriculum as time will
allow. Inevitably priorities have to be agreed as it is never possible to include every desirable
topic. This approach shifts the attention onto the subjects to be taught. Again the
CLASSIFICATION list provides a useful basis for selection, but this time extra care is taken to
make a balanced selection from each major division. The approach is truly subject orientated (not
teacher orientated) and is more balanced in its approach. It can, however, become degree driven,
rather than task related. .
C) The Functional (“tools for the job”) Approach: (the assumption of the average church
member)
Here the emphasis is on the needs of the work to which the student is called. “What is it that the
student must be able to do after completing this course?” is the first question asked before any subject
is “packed” into the curriculum “luggage”. This approach is thus task orientated and, for seminary
students, the assumption is that they are being trained to provide a service for the church and meet the
requirements of a congregation in terms of skills and knowledge.
Curriculum Manual 30
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We now consider three models of curriculum construction currently in practice in the West.
Curriculum Manual 31
Curriculum Manual 32
College
Examples:
Raison
d’etre “By the terms of Queen Margaret’s Charter, this
(Justification >>>> Chair was established for the teaching of
for its Divinity in the University of C ….”
existence)
“The Purpose of this College is to Prepare men and
v women for the Ministry of the Church of E…...”
v
v Requirements: 3 years’ residence under tutors
v for the study of chosen subjects:
Subject:
Definitions:
Professor: the principal teacher in a field of learning at a
DIVINITY university or college, in charge of his department
and usually occupying a “chair”.
Content: Fellow: a member of the teaching faculty of a university
A. Scripture college.
B. Doctrine Dean: a college fellow with responsibility for undergrad-
C. History uate discipline.
D. Pastoralia Reader: a lecturer in a university.
Lecture: (the text of) a discourse on a particular subject
v given or read to an audience.
Tutor: a member of staff responsible for the teaching and
v supervision of a certain number of students.
v (Derivation: a “caring for” > to” watch over”.)
Professorships / Lectureships
1. Subject “A” Professor “X”
v
Course Subjects
Autumn Term (Usually 3 terms to each academic year)
1.
2. etc
Tutors
v Supervise the written work of students
Bibliography
Essays
Reading Lists
On Topics in the Field of Study
Analysed in this way, it may seem that this traditional approach gives too much emphasis to the
teacher and the subject he teaches. However, the almost “guru” quality of this form of university
education has stood the test of the time and has produced many remarkable scholars and has been the
back-bone of the intelligentsia for many generations. **.
This traditional model is orientated towards a concept of education as an art. Before we look at an
example of a model orientated towards the complementary concept of education as a science, we shall
consider a more pragmatic model that is orientated towards education considered more as a service
agency for both the individual and the community.
B. Contemporary British
College
Clientele >>>>> Questionnaire
[sent to churches, former students, church leaders, etc]
V
V What? – How? – Why? – Where? – When? – Who? etc
V
V +
V
V
V Projection of future Needs
V
V Q: In 10 years time what will be the world scenario?
V
V
C. North American
School
Goals >>>>>>>>
Categories of Student Development
v
1.
v
v 2.
v
3.
Year Programme
1 3 Year Programme 4 Year Programme
or: 4. or: or:
Diploma Programme Bachelor Master’s
5. Programme Programme
Programme 6.
Objectives: Programme Objectives: Programme Objectives:
7. 1. 1.
1.
2. 2.
2. 3. 3.
4. 4.
5.
Designing a Curriculum
Course Subjects
[Preliminary listing]
1.
2. etc
Note: Every COURSE has its own written objectives describing which “piece of the pie” (i.e.
the over-all objectives of the programme) is to be accomplished within the course.
Example:
800 Pastoral Theology 3 Credit Hour
Course
Autumn 2000 [3 x 12 = 36 class “hours”]
Course Description
2 – 3 line summary of content. [This will be included in the institution’s Catalogue.]
e.g. The call to…duties of… skills needed…difficulties faced in the pastor’s live, etc.
Course Texts
1.
2.
3. etc
Curriculum Manual 35
Course Objectives
4. By the end of this course the student will have developed his / her…
e.g. standard of personal preparedness before leading
worship [Be]
a)
b) etc.
Course Outline
etc
Course Assignments
1. Reading
2. Written Assignment (Essay)
3. Projects – interview 3 pastors about Topic A
Course Grading
2. Term Paper
Curriculum Manual 36
MISSION STATEMENTS
The need to be very clear about what we are trying to achieve over-all is now recognised by the secular world as
well as by Christian organisations. Nowadays banks and even CocaCola have their own mission statement which
Actually this is not really a new discovery. European Universities had it before the Reformation. (See
the examples of a College Raison d’etre at the beginning of Section A: Traditional “Oxbridge”.) They
just did not call it their “Mission Statement”!
What is the function of such a statement? What does it set out to do? And what are its characteristics?
The purpose of a Mission Statement is to make clear what is the reason for the existence of the
organisation or institution. For what purpose was it founded? It sets out to state in clear language what
it is trying to achieve. It does not try to describe each and every aspect of its work, nor does it try to
convey its particular ethos or way of doing things. That should be done somewhere else, in an
advertisement, a constitution or a prospectus. The Mission Statement simply states the essential
mission of the organisation.
So a Mission Statement should be short – not more than 4 dozen words, clear – not complicated by
technical language, and memorable. It should also of-course win the approval of all those involved in
the organisation. When Gujranwala Theological Seminary held a Strategic Planning exercise to plan
for the next 5 years, the 20 or so Board members, Faculty and Students involved began by formulating
in groups of five a suitable Mission Statement for the Seminary. When eventually the four working
groups collated and agreed the final Statement there was spontaneous applause as all present together
recognised the essential nature of their Seminary’s work. The wording went as follows:
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Curriculum Manual 37
EXERCISE:
1. Write your own Mission Statement for your institution or organisation. (Either do this in small
groups or individually.) Remember to make it brief, clear and memorable.
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2. Now bring your various drafts together and compile an agreed Statement.
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Before we consider next the construction of objectives, let us first compare our thinking with the aims
and ethos of some North American colleges, as expressed in their recruiting advertisements.
Note: These are not Mission Statements, but rather statements of ethos and general approach. They
have the purpose of attracting attention. All the same, they tell us a lot about the institutions
concerned!
Curriculum Manual 38
SEMINARY PROFILES
Below are extracts of advertisements for various American Seminaries. Taken from a recent issue of
Christianity Today, they illustrate differing emphases in Seminary training. Not all portray an ethos we
necessarily would wish to share, but some could nudge us to further thought about our own goals.
Denver Seminary
Emphasis on hands-on learning directed by experienced mentors.
Innovative approach to knowing, being and doing.
We borrowed it from the best!
DISCUSSION
Make a List of points in these advertisements (above and on the other side) that appeal to you.
How you could adapt them to your programme? Write a “profile” advertisement for your institution.
PTO
Curriculum Manual 39
CONSTRUCTING OBJECTIVES
Suppose we take the over-all purpose of Theological Education to be: “the educational
furtherance of God’s Kingdom”. Upon this basic statement of general intent we could construct more
measurable objectives for each domain.
Cognitive: To be able to list and explain the significance of…
e.g. “10 major tenets of the Christian Faith”;
“4 key teachings of Scripture concerning the Kingdom of God”.
Functional: To be able to perform (in the field)…
e.g. “the preaching to a rural congregation of a sermon on God’s grace that is both
Biblical and contextual.”
“the leading of evening worship in a busti (poor street community).”
Affective: To be able to demonstrate (by behaviour and attitude)…
e.g. “godly concern for a bereaved church member whose unbelieving son
is killed in a road accident and offer counsel with integrity.”
Sapiential: To be able to…
e.g. “in a case of congregational schism (split), interpret Scripture with relevancy
and insight into the purposes of God for his Church.”
“counsel a husband whose wife has recently left him about how to cope with
infidelity in the light of God’s will for his people in marriage.”
A Nursing Example for Course Construction
As an example of how this four-fold approach might be applied to a course, let us look at
some examples of learning objectives in a training course for nursing sisters:
Cognitive domain: Listing and being able to explain aspects of the anatomy, physiology
and medical conditions of a patient.
Functional domain: Enabling junior staff to work well with supervised practice.
Affective domain: Demonstrating care for the self-esteem and morale of the patient.
(Note: in this area the modelling given by the tutor is very significant.)
Sapiential domain: Understanding the patient / doctors / colleagues / maids / superiors;
the nature of the illness and its effects upon the patient.
DISCUSSION
What is the pre-determined goal of our whole training programme?
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What are the main objectives in each learning domain that will, if achieved, enable our students
to reach this end?
Cognitive -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Functional -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Affective --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Sapiential ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Curriculum Manual 41
K) What Expectations am I taking away with me? (At the end of the workshop)
Curriculum Manual 42
CURRICULUM CONSTRUCTION
based on EXTERNAL NEEDS and
REQUIREMENTS
Once the principles upon which the curriculum should be constructed have been
agreed, and the approach decided, the next stage is to work through the following steps to
produce a working timetable. This should provide a weekly framework for teaching all that
needs to be learnt while truly reflecting the ethos, or principles, of the curriculum. This
process involves the following general stages:
STAGE 1. Listing the needs and requirements to be met by the training programme,
and its constraints.
STAGE 2. Identifying the subjects to be taught that will relate to these needs.
Reference to the Classification list may help here as menu from which to select
topics, but it should not be considered as a model of what ought to be included.
God’s
Student’s
Requirement
Needs World’s s
Church’s 1. Faculty’s
Needs 1.
2. 2.
Needs 1. Constrai
3. etc 3. etc
1. 2. nts
2. 3. etc 1.
3. etc
2.
STEP 3. Place these groups in order of priority. 3. etc
STEP 4. The next step attempts to sort out what is appropriate to teach at various educational
levels –
Certificate (facts, examples),
Diploma (interpretations of a text, Biblical studies),
Degree (concepts, theories, evaluations)
Identify for each “need” the appropriate level of learning.
Curriculum Manual 43
STEP 5. List, under the headings of the four learning domains, the learning objectives that
may be expected to meet each of the needs listed above. This is a brain-
storming exercise where the following key questions should be answered:
To meet this need, (e.g. God’s R. No. 1) what does the student need to KNOW?
1.
2. To meet this need, what does the student need to be able to DO?
3. etc
1.
2. To meet this need, what does the student need to BE? (Character,
3. etc attitude)
1. To meet this need, what does the student need to SEE? (Understand)
2. 1.
3. etc 2.
(STAGE 2) 3. etc
STEP 6. Identify the subjects or topics to be taught in order to achieve these objectives.
Add in any additional subjects suggested by scanning the CLASSIFICATION list.
Consider why they should be added. (What needs do they meet?)
Check whether or not each of the four learning domains is represented adequately.
Finally ask: is anything missed out that is significant or important for a balanced
coverage of this area of learning?
STEP 8. Group all subjects, with their learning objectives attached, under Course
headings.
STEP 9. [optional] Decide where subjects from different departments / domains could be
integrated. (See Appendix F)
Note: This is a big and important area of planning. It should only be attempted when there
is sufficient time, experience and commitment to do the work of integration
carefully.
Otherwise natural over-lapping of subjects may be a more practical option.
STEP 10. Decide what programmes leading to student accreditation to offer (e.g.
Diploma,
B.Th., M.Div., etc.).
(STAGE 3)
STEP 11. Allocate credit hours.
Note: A Credit Hour usually = 1 classroom period per week per 10- or 12- week
term,
I.e. 10 or 12 classroom “hours”
(Note: an “hour” sometimes means only 45 minutes!).
Decide A) how many credit hours would seem appropriate for each course in theory.
Evaluate the weighting given to each subject in the context of the total
curriculum being planned.
Decide where “balance” means equal proportion
and where appropriate proportion.
Ask: Is the time spent on each subject proportionate to its
significance?
B) how many credit hours in total to expect of each programme.
Read off from the “Three Year Plan” the subjects noted and plot them onto the
“Time-table sheet.
Revise the “Credit Hours” allocation to ensure that the number of classroom periods
is realistic for both student and teacher.
This raises the question: how many class periods should students be expected to sit
through?
30 x 45 minute periods per week? (Too “heavy”?)…
Change is always threatening. New ideas introduced in a rush often fail, especially if they are
not properly absorbed and digested. Old ways generally contain some merit and they have the
advantage of being tried, familiar and understood! For these reasons it is best to progress
slowly rather than swiftly, allowing everyone time to reflect on what is happening during
change and to adjust at their own pace.
What has been set out in the preceding pages represents an approach that is closer to an ideal
than to what can be realistically achieved at a first attempt, given the pressures of time, the
probable lack of sufficient teachers and just the urgency of the need “to teach the next class”.
So at the first attempt at revising a Curriculum it may be best simply to select from many
possibilities (as shown on the CLASSIFICATION list) and then prioritise, selecting only the
most important subjects (see Appendix B). In making such a selection the four Learning
Domains should also be checked to assess what kind of balance is being achieved by the
suggested reforms.
A later revision, say after three years of using the earlier attempt, might include additional felt
needs (identified through reflective research and expressed by formulating specific
measurable objectives) and again prioritise. In this selection more attention will be made to
the needs of the student, of the work for which (s)he is being trained, of the church, of the
community, of the nation, and even of the world (e.g. ecology).
Ultimately it may prove possible to construct a Curriculum that begins in each learning
domain with key objectives relating directly to the issues of Christ’s Kingdom. These learning
objectives would address first those issues that affect the honour of God’s name, and then
secondly the human needs of a fallen world, whether of the individual before redemption or of
the redeemed body of Christ visibly manifest in the Christian community. Such a Curriculum
would be need-related and integrated rather than degree-driven and departmental.
In the meantime let us all, students, teachers and leaders alike, “run with resolution the race which
lies ahead of us, our eyes fixed on Jesus” who is our model, mentor and teacher in working out our
programmes in the complex but crucial process of Theological Education.
Curriculum Manual 46
Part 4
APPENDICES
Construction Tools
A. THE TASK of CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT: Chart of the OVERALL PICTURE 47
C. SUMMARY of SUBJECTS: PRIORITIES CHECK-LIST . . . 48
C. APPORTIONING RELATIVE “WEIGHT” to each COURSE. . . . 50
Examples
D. A SEMINARY CURRICULUM: RELATIVE WEIGHTING of COURSES. . 52
E. A CURRICULUM SCHEDULE: . . . . . . 54
F. 3 YEAR TRAINING PLAN ( Indian example) . . . . . 55
G. A BEGINNER’S SCHOOL (Starting from Core TEXT BOOKS) . . 56
The “PROGRAMME” . . . . . . . 57
H. THE READING LIST: A Core Self-Study Programme . . . 58
Reflections
M. PASTORAL OBJECTIVES Bible Study . . . . . 72
N. WESTERN MODELS Critique . . . . . . . 73
O. Essay on MODELLING – Neil Foster . . . . . . 74
P. TOWARDS A THEOLOGY OF TRAINING METHODS – Robert Ferris. . 78
Q. TAIL- PIECE - A Fable . . . . . . . . 79
Survey
R. EVALUATION CHECK-LIST of AN INSTITUTION . . . 80
Curriculum Manual 47
SUMMARY CHART
of
CURRICULUM FIELDS
for
THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION
(Pakistan Context)
(taken from A Progressive Classification)
Dept. of Dept. of Dept. of Dept. of
56
100 BIBLICAL Systematic
Theology 600 CHURCH
STUDIES God
HISTORY
Introduction to the Bible The World
Early
& Patristic Era
OT-NT relationship Revelation
The Western Church
Geography of Bible Jesus Christ
4th-10th C
Lands The End Times Middle Ages
Biblical Archaeology Humanity
The Reformation
Transmission & Canon Redemption
Counter-Ref. & Puritans
Higher Criticism The Holy Spirit
E. Europe & Russia
Translation The Church
Eastern Churches
Hermeneutics Other:
Modern Era: The West
Bible Study Methods 300 PHILOSOPHY Evangelical Awakening
Other: Areas of Philos. Enquiry Contemporary Times
120 OLD TESTAMENT Philosophical Theology Asia (incl. Persia,
Survey of the OT Apologetics C.Asia)
Eirenics Indian Sub-continent
Historical Outline of OT
Polemics 1st-10th C
Themes of OT
Hist. of West.Rel. 16th-21st C
The Law
Thought Pakistan (regions)
Genesis – Exodus
Other: Other Countries
Deuteronomy
Denominations
The Prophets 400 CONTEMPORARY
Individuals
“Early” (Historical) STUDIES
Others:
“Later” Modern Beliefs
Isaiah Contemporary Issues 690 HISTORICAL
“12” (Minor) Contemporary Theology THEOLOGY
The Writings Cults & Sects H. of Hermeneutics
Wisdom Literature Pluralism & Other Faiths H. of Spirituality
5 Rolls (Festivals / Fasts) Comparative Religion H. of Sexuality
Daniel (Apocalyptic ISLAM Patristic
Ezra / Nehemiah (Hist.) Culture & Local Values Medieval
Other: Contextual Theology Reformation
160 NEW TESTAMENT Basic Xian Communities Enlightenment
Other: Modernity
Survey of the NT
Post-Modernity
OT fulfilment in the NT 500 COMMUNICATION
Formularies & Creeds
Themes of NT Principles of Communic.
Controversies
The Gospels Preaching (Proclamation)
Doctrinal Development
Jesus’ Life & Death Expository Preaching
Others:
Jesus’ Teaching Other kinds of Preaching
Synoptic Gospels Homiletics (Craft of Pr.) 700 PRACTICAL
John’s Gospel Other Ways of Commun. THEOLOGY
Acts Faith Sharing Personal Discipleship
Paul’s Theology Evangelism Conversion
Romans Other: Obedience
Epistles (Cor-Thes)
550 MISSIOLOGY Guidance
Pastoral Epistles
Theology of Mission Spiritual Warfare
Hebrews
Culture in Mission Self-control & Discipline
Revelation
LINGUISTICS The Cost of Discipleship
Other:
Approach to Other Faiths Imitating Christ
200 DOCTRINE Strategy of Mission Growth Fruit of the Spirit
Introduction
to Theology Call to Mission Holiness
Sources
of Theology Leadership in Mission Communion with God
Types of Theology History of Mission The Means of Grace
Fundamental Doctrines Other:
Feeding on God’s Word
Curriculum Manual Appendix G
56
Prayer
life Other:
How Cultural locally?
Worship
with others The Psychological elem:
780 THEOLOGICAL
Christian
Fellowship How adapted to
EDUCATION
Christian
Service Personal Temperament?
Theological FrameworkK
Using Gifts of the Spirit Essential ingredients
Theological Reflection U
Local Ch. Involvement Word and Sacrament
Godly Character B
Service to Community Occasional Services
Ministerial Skills D
Work Liturgy(prescribed
Other:
Use of Time & Money forms)
Giving & Tithing 800 PASTORAL Other:
Psychology of Self THEOLOGY
835 CONGREGATION-
Other: Pastor: gifts & character
AL OVERSIGHT
His Office & Church
720 CHRISTIAN ETHICS Equipping for service
Order
Disciplining disobedient
Principles Manager
Dealing with conflict
Moral Theology Missionary Strategist
Other:
Christian Virtues Preacher
Values Liturgist (Lead pub Wor) 840 LOCAL CHURCH
Setting Priorites Spiritual Director LEADERSHIP
Conscience & Conflicts Counsellor Jesus as Leader
Sexual Morality Psychology of Past. Care Modelling: Personal
Lying and Truth Jesus as Counsellor Example
Money Attitudes Care of the Individual Vision
Vices Shepherding the Team Work
Environmental Theol. wayward Managing Change
Ecological Issues Encouraging the faint Congregational Strategy
Use of Resources Counselling the troubled Missionary Outreach
Use of Technology Rescuing the weak Stewardship
Social Theology Problems of Families Other
Personal Attitudes Comforting the grieving 850 ORGANISATION
Social Issues Ministering to the sick Administration (Congr.)
Global Issues Visiting the parish Finances & Fund Raising
Community
Development Seeking the lost Property & Maintenance
Building
up the faithful Legalities
730 EDUCATION Other
Church Courts (Higher)
Principles Boards of Institutions
820 RENEWAL &
Logic Parish Councils, etc
REVIVAL
Study Methods Other:
Personal Renewal
Thinking Skills
Hist. & Theol. of Revival 870 DENOMINATIONS
Reading Skills
Leading House Groups Own Denom. Ethos
Researching
Charismatic Renewal Other Denominations
Note Taking
Tongues & Spirit Denom. History
Evaluating & Organising
Writing Essays
Baptism Denom. Doctrines
Spiritual Discernment Denom. Worship
Computer Skills
Vital Churches Denom. Government
Other:
Conducting Retreats Denom. Official posts
770 CHRISTIAN Other: Denom. Geog. Divisions
EDUCATION 830 PUBLIC WORSHIP W.C.C.
Religious Educ.(Schools) Public Worship aspects:
Teaching Catechists The Historical element:
Sunday School How Traditional?
Youth Work The Universal element:
Marriage Preparation How World-wide?
Parish Training The Social element:
Curriculum Manual 63
The following Course was constructed mainly from the Progressive Classification “menu”.
Educational Objectives were added for each subject.
DISCIPLESHIP COURSE
OUTLINE & OBJECTIVES
The course, as laid out above, represents a two term period of 13 weeks per term. However,
some topics may well require longer treatment than others. Also some topics may not be
considered as essential as others. It is recommended that for each topic listed above a further sub-
outline of main points be developed – with key Bible texts where possible – and then priorities
established for inclusion in a final syllabus. Reference to the NIV Thematic Study Bible (Hodder
& Stoughton, 1996) is highly recommended for this exercise.
Curriculum Manual 66
“FOLLOW MY EXAMPLE”
For Paul was prepared, even if he had no rights as an apostle, to give them up in order to set an example to others.
(ii) Secondly, if we look at the context of this imitation, we find that it expressed itself partly in the
way that the believers endured severe suffering, while welcoming the gospel with the joy given
by the Holy Spirit.
(iii) And not only did they imitate Paul, but they in turn became a model for other believers. We
might call this the “golden chain” of imitation: Paul imitates the Lord, the Thessalonians
imitate Paul, others believers imitate the Thessalonians. Think of the “multiplication” factor:
from Paul, to the congregation in Thessalonia, to the congregations in Greece.
Think of the potential effect of our modelling on the church in our country! If we
present a godly model of life to our students, which (with God’s grace) they follow, and they
then present a godly model of life to the congregations they work in, then this can spread
through many churches. If we behave in a godly way when in the Seminary issues of status or
property are at stake, who can tell what good effects this might have in the future in the
church at large?
In 1 Thess 2:9-10 Paul refers to this again:
“Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be
a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you. You are witnesses, and so is God, of how
holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. For you know that we dealt with each of
you as a father deals with his children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of
God.”
Paul says that he was like a father to them. What do we see in someone’s children? How
much they resemble and imitate their parents! It is no surprise, then, when Paul says to the
Thessalonians in 2 Thess 3:7
“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example.”
Turning to other letters of Paul we find the same theme. In 1 Corinthians 4:14-17 we again
find the image of the father. Paul, he says, is their “father” in Christ because through him the gospel
first came to them.
“Therefore I urge you to imitate me. For this reason I am sending to you Timothy, my son whom I love,
who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I
teach everywhere in every church.”
Curriculum Manual 76
We may note in passing how deeply involved Paul is in imitating God, for, like God, he “sends” his
“beloved son”. The Greek word agapetos, used to describe Timothy here, is the word used of the Lord
Jesus at his baptism - see Mk 1:11 and parallels.
What is most significant for our purposes is this: that Paul can boldly claim that his teaching and
his life in Christ completely agree with each other. And this is why, I Cor 11:1, Paul can say:
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Next in Paul’s career we come to a letter written from a Roman prison. He says in Philippians 3:17:
“Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern
we gave you.”
“Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch
your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your
hearers.”
For Paul both life and doctrine are essential! We need to understand the word of God correctly
and have right teaching. But that teaching will be powerless if it is not reflected in our living!
Paul gave the same advice to Titus, in Titus 2:7:
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity,
seriousness and soundness of speech.”
Curriculum Manual 77
The way we teach God’s word and the other subjects we present is also a big part of
modelling godly behaviour. Do we do so frivolously, without adequate preparation, in a lazy way?
This will model bad habits for our students.
4. Conclusion
God’s word speaks clearly to us from all these passages, doesn’t it? Any one of them
deserves detailed study and reflection. Taken together, they provide a powerful argument for living
transparently godly and obedient lives, which can be modelled by our students.
We are rightly concerned when we catch students copying each others’ exam papers and
essays. This is difficult to stop! But we cannot stop another copying the way they will copy the lives
of their teachers. They will do this whether we like it or not; this is the way God made us, so that we
learn by modelling.
The only question left is that raised by the simple words of the apostle John in his third
letter (3 John 11):
“Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good!”
Will we set a good example, or a bad? The responsibility on our shoulders as teachers is
indeed a heavy one, but we rejoice that with God nothing is impossible! As we allow the Spirit of
God, through the Word of God, to shape our lives in godliness, we can look forward to the Lord
producing much fruit through our ministry, for his glory.
Curriculum Manual 77
OPENNESS to ALTERNATIVES
Learner involvement: How can opportunity be given for the learner to contribute towards the
process of formulating goals? Is there room for re-formulating during the learning process?
Serendipity (happy chance discoveries): How can opportunity be given for alternative avenues of
enquiry, and for unplanned, fortuitous discoveries to be made?
JOINT RESPONSIBILITY: SHARING, PROVIDING and BUILDING on EXPERIENCE
Partnership in learning: If students and their sending churches were to be involved also in the
process of curriculum planning, what knowledge, experience and emphases would possibly be
brought to the task by: a) the student?
b) the sending church or congregation?
c) the ministry educator or curriculum designer?
Field-work: How can work in the Church / Community be adequately guided and monitored?
STUDENT RESPONIBILITY
Critical Reflection: How can personal reflection and group analysis of what has been done in the
field be fostered?
Self-examination: How can students learn to examine their own previously held values, beliefs and
behaviours?
STUDENT OWNERSHIP
Self-direction: How can students be motivated to direct their own learning and become independent
of their teachers for continuing their learning?
Elective courses (optional, student-chosen): How feasible are opportunities for students to take
elective courses within the over-all curriculum? What constraints restrict offering elective
courses?
Evaluation: How can we evaluate how far we are achieving our goals?
TALE-PIECE
The End