Module THEO2611: Issues in Old Testament Study

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO2611: Issues in Old Testament Study

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• To introduce students to the development and state of current scholarly discussions concerning the history of ancient Israel and Judah, the creation and formation of biblical texts, and ancient Israelite and Judean religion.
• To evaluate critically these scholarly discussions, and to estimate their wider significance for Old Testament study.
• To develop skills in the critical reading of biblical texts.

Content

• Specific issues, chosen for their topicality in the field of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, will be discussed. Within each topic, students will be introduced to the particular questions currently under discussion, and guided through the evidence and arguments which have been presented. Students will be encouraged to understand the different intellectual and religious influences which continue to shape the discipline.

Learning Outcomes

• A systematic understanding of key aspects, and a coherent and detailed knowledge of issues currently under discussion in the field, with a specific focus upon the most recent research and methodologies.

• An ability to assess critically the new evidence and approaches presented, and to confront and engage with current scholarly debate.
• An ability to read and understand the issues surrounding a difficult set text.

• Skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Development of area-specific critical reading skills.

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

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Summative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

One essay of 2500 words.