Module THMN1327: Introduction to Studying Theology

Department: Theology and Ministry

THMN1327: Introduction to Studying Theology

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• 1. To introduce students to the nature of Theology, its historical development and contemporary relevance.
• 2. To introduce students to the study skills needed for theological enquiry

Content

• This module will provide an introduction to the nature of Christian Theology, exploring particular themes in relation to some of the major individuals and movements which have influenced the development of Theology.
• In particular it will enable students to focus on and evaluate the use of Scripture, Church traditions, reason and contemporary experience.
• It will also consider the study skills needed to engage in theological enquiry and give opportunity to students to try these out in practice.
• It will introduce students to the concepts of revealed, natural and practical theology through historical as well as contemporary lenses.
• Seminar Outline The Seminars will address:
• 1) The relationship between faith and practice
• 2) The application of Scripture and Tradition in practice
• 3) How theological enquiry has engaged with specific issues, e.g. the development of the Church’s ministry, the impact of science and technology on society, changes in social mores.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of this module, students should have:
• an initial understanding of the nature and scope of theological enquiry
• an initial understanding of the relationships between life and faith, theology and practice

• They should also be able to:
• reflect theologically on particular issues and events
• discern the different skills needed in theological study
• articulate some of the fruits of theological enquiry and study
• relate reason and practice
• apply study skills to theological questions

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching and learning will be undertaken through interactive and participative seminars.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One Formative Exercise: a prepared contribution to the seminars on a given theologian, theological issue, or a passage of scripture.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University