Syllabus IGBS Spring 2015

5/19/2018 Syllabus IGBS Spring 2015

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INTRODUCTION TO GRADUATE BIBLICAL STUDIES

INSTRUCTOR:

Christopher Rosser

Theological Librarian

[email protected]

S Y L L A B U SSpring 2015

G r a d u a t e S c h o o l o f T h e o l o g y O k l a h o m a C h r i s t i a n U n i v e r s i t y
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


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Contents

Note: This syllabus is designed to function as an electronic document. Contents throughout are hyper-

linked for quick access and easier navigation.

Purpose Statement and Explanation

pages 1-2

Required Texts page 2

Module Schedule page 3

Deliverable Due Dates page 3

Meeting Schedule pages 4-8

Module Objectives pages 9-10

Guidelines for Projects and Deliverables page 11-14

Grading pages 15-16

Assessment page 16

Course Policies page 17-18

Readings and Resources pages 19-20

OCs Mission:

Oklahoma Christian University is a higher learning community that

transforms lives for Christian faith, scholarship, and service.

S Y L L A B U SSpring 2015

G r a d u a t e S c h o o l o f T h e o l o g y O k l a h o m a C h r i s t i a n U n i v e r s i t y


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BIBL 5013: Introduction to Graduate Biblical Studies

Purpose

This course is designed to prepare students for graduate biblical studies by equipping them with intellec-

tual toolsfor thinking, reading, researching, writing, and presenting. These five concerns are foundationalnot only for success in the graduate program, but also for lifelong learning in ministry. Proficiency withand eventually mastery of these five intellectual tools will develop throughout the program as studentsengage the Bible, interact with scholarship, contemplate the Christian tradition, and learn to think theo-logically. As a community of learners, students will work together to engage problems, to locate andevaluate information, and to make practical application of learning through class projects and case study.

Explanation

IGBS is taught in modules, or teaching seg-ments. Each of the five modules targets spe-cific learning outcomes which are the instruc-

tors expectations for students as they pro-gress. These outcomes are measured accordingto assigned deliverables that students will sub-mit or present throughout the semester. Pleaseconsult the detailed schedulebelow for class

content and due datesfor deliverables.

Five intellectual tools comprise the frameworkfor this course: critical thinking, reflective read-ing, effective research, skillful writing, andcompelling presentation. Modules are de-signed to sharpen these tools by providing op-

portunities to engage and assess readings inbiblical scholarship and to work both indi-vidually and collectively on projects and pres-entations. Specific objectiveshone these toolsand provide measures for assessment:

Critical thinking. Critical thinking is crucial intodays information-saturated environment.Students will learn to critically question a text(whether written or spoken); they will identifypresuppositions; they will become familiarwith various models for biblical interpretation.Reflective reading. Applying critical thinking skills, students will deeply engage assigned readings andassess the authors argumentation, position, and approach. Students will examine biblical texts to iden-tify genre, form, and rhetorical strategy. Students will encounter various strategies for effective Biblereading and will participate in lectio divinareadings of Scripture. Students will be able to summarize themain points of an article and will demonstrate skills by composing a book review.

I n t r o d u c t i o n t o G r a d u a t e B i b l i c a l S t u d i e s C o u r s e P l a n , S p r i n g 2 0 1 5

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Effective research. Students will develop competency in information literacy. Students will identify theirown information behaviors and will be able to explain the process of researching general to specific. Stu-dents will learn to formulate effective research questions and develop effective research strategies. Stu-dents will show competency in researching with both print and electronic resources and will be able toidentify various types of information resources. Students will be able to evaluate information resourcesfor reliability and scholarship and will become aware of copyright and intellectual property issues relatedto information. Students will recognize the value of synergy and networking for locating information.Students will discuss implications of information ubiquity for ministry in an information society.

Skillful writing. Students will show competency for effectively outlining an essay and will be able toformulate problem, purpose, and significance statements. Students will discuss the nature ofgenre(text-types) as it informs expectations for written products such as exegesis papers, book reviews, and discus-sion board responses. Students will identify and discuss examples of both poor and excellent writing.Students will hone their own writing skills through various compositions according to feedback from in-structors. Students will learn to draft, rewrite, and proof before submission. Students will recognize thevital importance of proper grammar in academic writing.

Compelling presentation. Students will become familiar with Turabian, the appropriate style and formatfor work submitted in the Graduate School of Theology. Students will make an oral presentation com-plemented with media (PowerPoint, etc.) and will receive feedback for improvement.

Introduction to Graduate Biblical Studies is foundational for all classes and programs in the GraduateSchool of Theology. For many students, graduate school is their first experience thoughtfully, criticallyexamining the foundations of Christian faith. While this experience can be challenging, the GST gener-ally and IGBS specifically offer a safe space for questioning, thinking, and profoundly developing faith.Students are encouraged to work hard, to participate, to engage the readings and projects, to interact as acommunity of learners, and to always ask for help and guidance. In this way, students who completethis course will be equipped with intellectual tools that will serve them throughout their studies at Okla-homa Christian and beyond.

Required Texts

1. Badke, William B. Research Strategies: Finding Your Way Through the Information Fog. New York: IUniverse, Inc,2008. ISBN: 9780595477470

2. Camp, Phillip G. Finding Your Way: A Guide to Seminary Life and Beyond. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2009. ISBN:9781606082522

3. Heidt, Mari Rapela. A Guide for Writing About Theology and Religion. Winona, MN: Anselm Academic, 2012. ISBN:9781599820033

4. Tate, W. Randolph. Interpreting the Bible: A Handbook of Terms and Methods. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2006. ISBN:

9781565635159

5. Thielicke, Helmut. A Little Exercise for Young Theologians. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1980. ISBN: 978-0802811981

6. Turabian, Kate L. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. Chicago: University of Chicago,2013. ISBN: 9780226816371


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Module chedule (see sp cific module objectives at end of syllabus)

Module Dates General Focus of Module

Mod 1 1/4 thru 1/20 Critical thinking for theological studies

Mod 2 1/21 thru 2/10 Engaging texts through reflective reading

Mod 3 2/11 thru 3/3 Information literacy for effective research

Mod 4 3/4 thru 4/7 Techniques and strategies for skillful writing

Mod 5 4/8 thru 4/21 Presenting information and working a case study as a community of learners

Dog-ear this page and refer to it often!

Deliver ble Due Dates(Unless required at class on Tuesdays, deli erables due by 11:59 PM.)

Mod 1 Asking and answering critical questions 1/11 (Sunday)

Mod 1 Arguing with an author 1/18 (Sunday)

Mod 2 Interacting with a scholarly blog 1/25 (Sunday)

Mod 2 Theartof reading Scripture 2/1 (Sunday)

Mod 2 Response tolectio divina 2/3 (Tuesday)

Mod 2 Rhetorical strategies exercise 2/8 (Sunday)

Mod 3Personal information seeking behavior 2/15 (Sunday)

Mod 3 Ubiquitous information 2/22 (Sunday)

Mod 3 Book Review (draft for expected revision) 3/3 (Tuesday)

Mod 4 Essay on information ethics 3/10 (Tuesday)

Mod 4 Thought piece 3/31 (Tuesday)

Mod 4 Essay on significant interpreter and method 4/7 (Tuesday)

Mod 5 Presentation on interpreter and method 4/14, 21 (Tuesday)

Mod 5 Resubmission of book review 4/24 (Friday)


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Keep a sharp eye on this schedule so that you dont miss anything!

Meeting Sc edule (Tuesday evenings, 6:30 to 9:15, WBC 120)

Date Content, Readings, and Deliverables

January 6 Reception: The GST will host a reception for IGBS students from 6:30 to 7:00; information will

be provided via announcements and email.

Technical Support: Getting us all online for access and appropriate software...

Syllabus: We will spend time reviewing the syllabus, discussing expectations, describing pro-

jects, and getting familiar with the Blackboard course site.

Managing Your Time. An essential skill we will work to develop throughout the semester.

Introductions: Perhaps it seems backwards, but were saving the best for last!

January 13 Module 1: Critical Thinking (1)

Introducing Graduate Biblical Studies. The Camp text will serve as a framework for consid-

ering what to expect in graduate-level theological studies.

Joining the Conversation. Well discuss the dialogical nature of theological reflection.

Exercise: Discussion board; critical questioning;hospitalityand GST; library tour

! Pre-class preparation:

Watch the video Critical Questioning, IGBS (Mod 1 folder)

Read Camp, Finding Your Way (all)

Read Thielicke,A Little Exercise(all)

Read Foster, Study, Celebration of Discipline(Mod 1 Readings)

Read Hall, What is Theology? (Mod 1 Readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Asking and Answering Critical Questions (Discussion Board)

January 20 Module 1: Critical Thinking (2)

Deep Thinking about Critical Thinking. Presuppositions, lenses, and other paraphernalia

Paradigms and Methods in Biblical Studies. Realizing avariety of approaches to biblical

studies (possible guest lecturer)

Exercise: Arguing with an Author; critical thinking drills; IGBS vocabulary, using Tate, etc.


Read Laura and Chapman, The Technologisation of Education (Mod 1 Readings)

Read Dvorak, John H. Elliotts Social-Scientific Criticism (Mod 1 Readings)

Be sure to bring your copy of Tate (Interpreting the Bible) to class

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Arguing with an Author (submit via Blackboard)

! In-class deliverable(s): Book Review selection (see list provided by instructor)


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January 27 Module 2: Reflective Reading (1)

Teaching with Books, Learning with Books. Pleasure and pain of reading like you mean it

Information Resources for Theologians and Scholars.Survey the scope, books and beyond

Exercise: Recognizing the Problem, Point, and Purpose of an essay; Learner as Desirer

In-Class Graded Exercise: Logos, Pathos, Ethos and Pop-Culture


Reading (check Blackboard Announcement for assigned reading)

Read Lewis on reading old books (Mod 2 Readings)

Watch Primary, Secondary, Tertiary Sources (Mod 2 folder)

Watch Researching General to Specific (Mod 2 folder)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Interacting with a Scholarly Blog (Discussion Board)

February 3 Module 2: Reflective Reading (2)

The Art (and Science) of Reading Scripture. Bible-brained reading gets an aesthetic eye

Spiritually Formative Graduate Studies. Shopping malls, stadiums, and gut-learning

Exercise: PPP;lectio divina; Into the Dark

In-Class Graded Exercise: Outlining for Research


Read Davis and Hays, Nine Theses on Interpretation (Mod 2 Readings)

Read Calhoun, Devotional Reading (Mod 2 Readings)

Read Jones on sacred reading (Mod 2 Readings)

Read Peterson, Eat This Book, ch.6-7 (Mod 2 Readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Theartof reading Scripture or Into the Dark

! In-class deliverable(s): Response tolectio divina

February 10 Module 2: Reflective Reading (3)

Uncovering Rhetoric. Recognizing the structures of persuasion embedded in texts

Writing a Book Review. Quelling terror by examining the bones

Exercise: PPP; Rhetorical Strategies Exercise; outlining for research; Eye of the Beholder


Watch How to Write a Book Review (Mod 2 folder)

Watch What genres are and what they do, parts 1 and 2 (Mod 2 folder)

Watch Outlining for Research (Mod 2 folder)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Rhetorical Strategies Exercise (submit via Blackboard)


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February 17 Module 3: Effective Research (1)

Information Literacy for Ministry and Scholarship. Understanding the basics

Library Orientation.A while in my world

Exercise: PPP; Discussion board responses; book worms and scavengers in the stacks

In-Class Graded Exercise: Group Report of Information Seeking Behaviors


Read Badke, Research Strategies(Preface; 1-31; 136-60)

Read Al-Hawamdeh, Information and Knowledge Society(Mod 3 Readings)

Read Quick Tip: Writing in Groups (Mod 3 Readings)

Read Jacobs, Christianity and the Future of theBook (Mod 3 Readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Personal Information Seeking Behavior (Discussion Board)

February 24 Module 3: Effective Research (2)

Using Online Tools: Database Research. Introduction to electronic library resources

Baby Steps with Kate Turabian. Initial introduction to the exciting world of formatting

Exercise: Review discussion postings; Group Report of Information Seeking Behavior


Read Heidt, A Guide for Writing(all)

Read Turabian,A Manual for Writers(12-61; familiarize chapters 16 and 17)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Ubiquitous Information (Discussion Board)

March 3 Module 3: Effective Research (3)

Using Online Tools: The Internet. Making effective use of powerful online resources

Source Evaluation: Critical Thinking in an Information Age. The good, bad, and ugly

Wonderful, Wonderful Wikipedia. Understanding the tools strengths and limitations

Exercise: Scavenging the digital world; evaluation exercises; Wikipedia citation tracking

In-Class Graded Exercise: U Need Em Resources


Read Evison, Digital Revolution (Mod 3 Readings)

Complete Internet Detective tutorial

Watch Evaluating Web Sources

Read Maehre, What it Means to Ban Wikipedia (Mod 3 Readings)

! In-class deliverable(s): Book Review Draft


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March 10 Module 4: Skillful Writing (1)

Did God really say Thou shalt not plagiarize? Unpacking a pickle

Gender-Exclusive Language and Other No-nos in Academic Writing.

Further Steps with Turabian. Title page, headings, and reference page formatting

Exercise: Essay analysis; identifying inclusive language; Turabian fix-it


Read Johns, Gender Language in Bible Translation (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Snavely, God Language (Mod 4 Readings)

Read White and Burtchaell, Linguistic Injustice (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Long, Stolen Goods (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Phillips, Plagiarism and Theological Education (Mod 4 Readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Essay on Information Ethics (submit via Blackboard)

March 17 No class; Spring Break


Even Bigger Steps with Turabian. Annotations and bibliographies

Types of Texts in Graduate Studies. Knowing the genre, writing with purpose

Outlining for Research and Writing. Perhaps one of the most worthwhile skills to develop

Exercise: Review plagiarism essays; introduce Interpreter and Method essays

In-Class Graded Exercise:Annotations and Bibliographies


Essay Analysis. Comparing the construction of well-written (and not-so-well-written) essays

Great Big Steps with Turabian. Drafting, proofreading, and proofing again

Interpreters and Methods. Another look at who, what, when, where, why, and how

Exercise: Review thought piece submissions; essay analysis, group work; tips for good writing

! Pre-class preparation (read three of the following):

Read Hauerwas and Willimon, Embarrassed by the Church (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Bender, Seminary and Congregation (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Wilson, Globalization for Global Community (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Root, Theology of the Cross and Ministry in Our Time (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Swenson, Biblically Challenged (Mod 4 Readings)

Read Sweet, Uneasy Alliance (Mod 4 readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Thought Piece (submit via BB)


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April 7 Module 4: Skillful Writing (4)

Notes on your essays. Polishing them up for our big presentations

Creating a compelling presentation. Wowing your audience with a riveting, visual project

Exercise: Critique instructor presentation

In-Class Graded Exercise: Project X


Reading (check Blackboard Announcement for assigned reading)

Watch Creating a Compelling Presentation

! Pre-class deliverable(s): Essay on Significant Interpreter and Method

April 14 Module 5: Compelling Presentation (1)

Spirituality for Ministry and Scholarship. Devotional thoughts as we end the semester

StudentPresentations

Exercise: information literacy assessment; course evaluation; peer feedback on presentations


Read Nouwen, In the Name of Jesus(Mod 5 Readings)

Read Schultze, Habits of the High-Tech Heart(Mod 5 Readings)

Read Frambach, Models of Leadership (Mod 5 Readings)

! Pre-class deliverable(s): If presenting, submit your project via Blackboard prior to class

April 21 Module 5: Compelling Presentation (2)

StudentPresentations

Exercise: Peer feedback on presentations

! Pre-class deliverable(s): If presenting, submit your project via Blackboard prior to class


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Modul Objectives

Module Outcomes

Mod 1 Critical thinking for theological studies

students will be able to describe aspects of critical thinking that apply to theological studies students will recognize and assess personal presuppositions about biblical and graduate studies

students will employ critical thinking skills to identify specific cultural, historical, intellectual, and

religious factors that inform specific scholarly positions and then critique these positions

students will identify and discuss a specific scholars argumentation or rhetorical strategy

students will become familiar with various models for biblical interpretation

Mod 2 Engaging texts through reflective reading

students will be able to describe strategies for deeply engaging written scholarly materials

students will be able to identify the types of information resources useful for biblical scholarship

students will effectively review a selected book

students will be able to identify text types available in the corpus of biblical literature

students will become familiar with various strategies for meaningful biblical reading

Mod 3 Information literacy for effective research

students will discuss the impact of ubiquitous information on ministry and biblical studies

students will demonstrate awareness of whenand what kind ofinformation is needed

students will show comprehension of formulating research questions

students will formulate problem, purpose, and significance statements to frame a research project

students will show comprehension of how to conduct general to specific research

students will reflect on personal information seeking behavior

students will demonstrate effective use of both print and online tools for locating information re-

sources (indexes, databases, Web searches, etc.)

students will demonstrate an ability to evaluate the scholarship and reliability of resources

students will recognize specific types of research and writing for biblical studies and ministry

(exegesis, descriptive research, program development, case study, issues papers, and reviews)

students will thoughtfully engage issues regarding information ethics (plagiarism, copyright, etc.)

students will demonstrate familiarity with and effective use of Turabian formatting

Mod 4 Techniques and strategies for skillful writing

students will demonstrate effective essay organization and composition

students will engage and analyze a variety of scholarly essays

students will research and write on both an interpretive model and a significant interpreter

students will demonstrate editing skills as they prepare a resubmission of a book review

students will organize thoughts and compose a persuasive thought piece

students will contemplate the relationship between church and seminary, considering the loca-

tion of both within the context of an information society


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Modul Objectives

Mod 5 Presenting information and working as a community of learners

students will discuss the transforming habits of thinking theologically

students will be introduced to spiritually forming practices that empower educational experience

students will demonstrate effectiveness in both oral and visual presentations

students will work together to analyze a case, discuss theological implications, and propose sug-

gestions for how congregation leaders should deal with the cases situation

students will complete an assessment of information literacy skills at end of course


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Guidelines for Projects and Deliverables

The following descriptions of expectations for projects and deliverables will be posted in Blackboardfor

each module. They are provided in the syllabus for the sake of reference.

MOD DELIVERABLE NAME DESCRIPTION

1 Arguing with an author: critical en-

gagement of selected essay

Provides an opportunity for students to apply critical

questioning skills for engaging a selected scholarly

essay.

Instructions: Obtain both essay and worksheet for

this assignment from appropriate folder in Blackboard;

submit completed worksheet to instructor(s) by due

date; upload to Blackboard.

1 Asking and answering critical

questions

Discussion Forum 2, in which discussion members

work together to determine what questions are most

appropriate for engaging specified texts (biblical texts,

scholarly writings, podcasts or other media).

Instructions: In Blackboard, access Discussion Forum

2; each student is required to post an initial comment

to the question(s) and then to provide a +1 comment

on at least one classmates response

Note: +1 comments show real engagement of a

classmates ideas by offering new insight or by chal-

lenging the classmates position with a question; +1comments are much more than a simple I agree or I

really liked what you said. Discussion forums are

successful when students are committed to offering

more than the bare minimum requirements.

1 Select book for review and email

instructors with title of choice (not

for grade)

As a major project, students will prepare a critical re-

view of an approved book.

Instructions: Access guidelines for this project in

Blackboard; students may either select a book from

the list of instructors recommendations or choose a

different book per instructors approval.


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https://bb.oc.edu/webapps/login/https://bb.oc.edu/webapps/login/


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2 Interacting with a scholarly blog Discussion Forum 3, in which students will locate and

consider a scholarly blog from an individual or com-

munity of biblical/theological scholars.

Instructions: Complete assigned readings; access

Discussion Forum 4; follow instructions to individually

locate a scholarly blog and then respond to the

prompt question(s), followed by a +1 comment to at

least one classmate.

2 Theartof reading Scripture Discussion Forum 4, in which students will interact

with readings that provide direction for meaningful

engagement of Scripture.

Instructions: Complete assigned readings; access

Discussion Forum 3; each student will respond to

prompt question(s) and then provide a +1 comment to

at least one classmate.

2 Response tolectio divina Individuals will have a chance to engage the ancient,

spiritually formative exercise oflectio divina, the sa-

cred reading of Scripture.

Instructions: Complete assigned readings; review

guidelines for the assignment by accessing the folder

forlectio divinain Blackboard; complete the work-

sheet and submit to instructor(s) by due date; upload

to Blackboard.

2 Rhetorical strategies exercise Students will analyze three types of persuasive argu-

ment (from Scripture, a scholarly article, and an online

resource like a podcast or video) to determine the

authors rhetorical strategy.

Instructions: Watch video What genres are and what

they do; review guidelines for the assignment by ac-

cessing the folder Rhetorical Strategies in Blackboard;

locate readings/media, complete the worksheet; sub-

mit to instructor(s) by due date; upload to Blackboard.


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3 Book Review (draft for expected

revision)

Students will draft a critical review of the book they

each selected in Module 1 and submit this draft for

comments and expected revision.

Instructions: access the folder Book Review in

Blackboard; use the instructions and example(s) pro-

vided to draft a critical review of the book you se-

lected; follow all guidelines; submit the review to in-

structor(s) by the due date; upload to Blackboard.

3 Ubiquitous information Discussion Forum 5, in which students will have a

chance to consider the nature of information in an in-

formation society, information overload, and how to

discern when and what kind of information is needed.

Instructions: Complete assigned readings ; access

Discussion Forum 5; thoroughly answer prompt ques-

tion(s) and then provide a +1 comment for at least one

classmate.

3 Personal information seeking be-

havior

Discussion Forum 6, in which students will have a

chance to contemplate and discuss their own informa-

tion seeking behaviors.

Instructions: access Discussion Forum 6; follow

guidelines for composing a brief description of per-

sonal information seeking behavior; read all other

classmate postings.

4 Essay on information ethics Information ethics includes the idea of plagiarism,

but also refers to a broader category of concepts.

Students will have opportunity to consider the scope

of information ethics and to comment on how these

ideas impact ministry and biblical studies.

Instructions: Complete the assigned readings; review

the guidelines in Blackboard under Information Eth-

ics; submit the essay to instructor(s) by the due date;

upload to Blackboard.


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4 Thought piece

Possible topics include community, minis-

try, and the information age; the relation-

ship between the church and seminary;gender exclusive/inclusive language in

biblical studies and ministry; wrestling

with graduate theological studies; etc.

Consult with instructor for topic approval.

Students will have an opportunity to compose a

thought piece, an exercise in contemplation, critical

thinking, and the written presentation of ideas.

Instructions: Read the assigned materials; review the

guidelines for this assignment in the Blackboard folder

entitled Thought Piece; submit essay to instructor(s)

by due date; upload to Blackboard.

4 Essay on significant interpreter

and method

Students will learn about a significant interpreter and

his/her specific model for biblical interpretation and

write an essay report on their selected person/focus.

Instructions: Read the assigned materials; review the

guidelines for this assignment in the Blackboard folder

entitled Method and Interpreter; submit essay to

instructor(s) by due date; upload to Blackboard.

5 Resubmission of book review Students will be able to practice good editing skills to

hone their writing by preparing a resubmission of their

book review assignment. The goal is to produce a

review that is of publishable quality.

Instructions: Review the guidelines for this assign-

ment in the Book Review folder in Blackboard; make

changes to review based on feedback from instruc-

tor(s); schedule appointment with the OC Writing Cen-

ter, The Writers Block, and make necessary revi-

sions; resubmit review to instructor(s) by the due date.

5 In-class presentation on interpre-

tive method and significant inter-

preter

Students will prepare a class presentation on their

selected interpretive method and interpreter that em-

ploys some type of media (Power Point, Key Note,

etc.) 10 minute presentations followed by a 5 minute

question and answer period will be offered in class.

Instructions: Watch the video Creating a Visual Pres-

entation; review guidelines for in-class presentations

in Blackboard folder entitled Presentations; all pres-

entations must be given in class (i.e., late presenta-

tions are not possible).


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Grading

GRADING SCALE

93-100 A Excellent level of achievement

84-92 B Average level of achievement

75-83 C Below average level of achievement

below 75 F Failure

GRADE WEIGHT BY ASSIGNMENT

Participation 5%

Graduate students are expected to attend class meetings and to thoughtfully en-

gage discussion. It should go without saying that attendance and participation are

both vital for establishing and supporting a rich community of learning. As Scrip-

ture says, iron sharpens iron.

Please notify instructors if you will not be able to attend class sessions.

5%

Community discussion 10%

Asking and answering critical questions 2%

Theartof reading Scripture 2%

Interacting with a scholarly blog 2%

Ubiquitous information 2%

Personal information seeking behavior 2%

In Class Graded Exercises 20%

Logos, Pathos, Ethos, and Pop-Culture

Outlining for Research

Group Report of Info Seeking Behavior

U Need Em Resources

Annotations and Bibliographies

Project X

Worth 3.3% each; grade

dependent on presence

and participation in class

sessions; if unable to at-

tend, see instructor for

alternative assignment(s)

Worksheets 15%

Arguing with an author 5%

Response tolectio divina 5%


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GRADE WEIGHT BY ASSIGNMENT

Rhetorical strategies exercise 5%

Essays 20%

Essay on information ethics 5%

Essay on significant interpreter and method 10%

Thought piece on community, ministry, and the information age 5%

Minor Projects 10%

Book Review draft 10%

Major Projects 20%

Resubmission of book review 10%

Presentation on Interpreter and Method 10%

100% Total

Assessment

Deliverables will be assessed by rubric, and an electronic copy of both the graded assignment and the

rubric will typically be returned to the student via Blackboard, email, or in person.

Further Resources

For additional resources, see the IGBS LibGuide as well as the course links accessed via Blackboard.


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Course PoliciesA. Communication & Office Policies for BIBL-5013-01

1. Email and Phone The best way to contact your instructor is by email. Whenever possible, your in-

structor will respond within 24 hrs. of receiving an email message. Do not waituntil the "last minute" (e.g. just before class time) to send an email and expect animmediate answer or that the instructor even received the message. Please in-clude a meaningful, yet succinct subject line. Students may call the instructor onhis office phone (see page 1 of syllabus). If unavailable, you are encouraged toleave a voicemail message including your name and the reason for your call.

2. Office HoursStudents should feel free to stop by the instructors office for consultation. Notethat I am often at the library Reference Desk and do not necessarily keep specificoffice hours. It is best to email or call in advance to make an appointment to en-sure that the instructor will be available.

B. Absences and Late Work

1. The discipline of completing work on time is an important lesson to master. Alldeliverables are due on the date assigned. In the event of late work, the studentmust notify the instructor of his or her impending lateness and excuse prior tothe due date of the deliverable. Acceptance of late work is at the discretion of theinstructor. Good communication with instructors is important; we encouragestudents to contact their instructor if they know that an assignment will be late.

2. Again, good communication with your instructor is vital, and I encourage you tocontact me if you are unable to participate in a discussion board forum or miss anassignment due to a prolonged emergency situation.

C. Closings and Emergencies1. In the case class cancellation or campus closure for inclement weather or emer-

gencies, students will be notified via email and Blackboard announcement.Please expect that some work will be moved online (e.g., an extra discussionboard session, video content from instructor, etc.) to make up for lost seat time.

2. In case of an emergency, faculty, staff, and students who have signed up for OCCampus Messenger (oc.edu/notify

) will be notified by text, email, or Twitter. Ifthe emergency occurs during class, the instructor will inform the students pre-sent of the appropriate procedures.

D. Laptop/Handheld/Phone Policy1. You are strongly encouraged to use your laptops or handheld device in the class

for the purpose of learning. If you are abusing this privilege then you may beforced to revert to more ancient technologies.

2.

Put your phones on silent/vibrate. You may not take calls during class unless it isan emergency. In such cases, please leave the room for your conversation.

3. Keep your laptops running well! Visit support.oc.edu for technology help, in-cluding free software downloads for graduate students.


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E. Academic Honesty

Cheating: Cheating on an examination, assignment, roll sheet or other course relatedwork or activities undermines the ethics of the academy and the specific Christian pur-poses of Oklahoma Christian University. Accordingly, students who cheat on examina-tions, assignments or other course related work or activities will face serious conse-quences, as outlined in this policy.

Plagiarism: One particular form of cheating is plagiarism. Plagiarism is the transmissionof anothers ideas, words, or materials as ones own and/or the failure to credit accu-rately the ideas, words, or materials of another. Plagiarism also includes passing off an-others work (a friend, a parent, a website) as ones own. Plagiarism undermines the eth-ics of the academy and the specific Christian purposes of Oklahoma Christian University.Accordingly, students who engage in plagiarism in assignments submitted will face seri-ous consequences, as outlined in this policy.

Penalties for Academic Dishonesty

1. On the first offense, the student will receive zero (0) credit for the examination or as-signment. For forms of cheating or dishonesty other than on examinations or as-signments, the Professor shall have the discretion to impose an appropriate penalty.Professors must send documentation of the first offense to the appropriate chair, thedean of the appropriate college, the VPAA, and the Dean of Students.

2. On the second offense in the same course, the student will receive an F in the course.Professors must send documentation of the second offense to the appropriate chair,the dean of the appropriate college, the VPAA, and the Dean of Students.

3. At either the first offense or second offense, the student may appeal using the processdescribed in both the OC Student Handbookand the OC Academic Policy Manual cover-ing Grade Appeals.

4. If the student commits offenses in two or more courses, the Academic AppealsCommittee, described in the OC Student Handbookand in the OC Academic Policy

Manual, may assign penalties for academic dishonesty in addition to the penaltiesassigned by the professors in the courses. The Academic Appeals Committee mayimpose penalties up to and including suspension from the University in instanceswhere a student has engaged in cheating or plagiarism in two or more courses. TheAcademic Appeals Committee will inform the VPAA and the Dean of Students inwriting of any penalties imposed by it and will report annually on its activities to theUniversitys Academic Affairs Committee.

5. Professors should maintain the highest standards of academic honesty both in andout of the classroom. Professors must report and apply the rules regarding cheating/plagiarism to the appropriate channels. The student should be referred to the Okla-

homa Christian University Covenant for principles which should guide conduct inthese matters.


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F. Americans with Disabilities ActIf you have a diagnosed disability and need special accommodations, please notify Ms.Katy Roybal (425-1876) before or immediately after your first scheduled class meeting.After your disability has been verified, your instructor will work with you, with Ms.Roybal, and with the Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs to provide reason-able accommodations to ensure that you have a fair opportunity to perform in thiscourse.

G. Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy (Title IX)

Oklahoma Christian University is a Christian community that has committed itself, une-quivocally, to ensuring a working and learning environment in which the dignity ofevery individual is respected and a campus environment that is free of unlawful harass-ment, which includes sexual assault or misconduct. OCs Anti-Harassment and Discrimi-nation Policy (see the OC Student Handbook) is compliant with Title IX, which states,No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participationin, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education pro-

gram or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. Discriminatory and sexual har-assment is unchristian and uncivil behavior. It is a breach of community, which expressesdisrespect, exploits and undermines relationships based on trusts, and interferes withlearning and productive work.

Students are encouraged to immediately seek available assistance and report incidents of harassment to either the

Title IX Coordinator or one of the Title IX Deputy Coordinators listed below:

Title IX Coordinator Ms. Tamie Willis 405.425.5320 [email protected]

Title IX Deputy Coordinator

Student Services

Ms. Summer Lashley 405.425.5908 [email protected]


HousingMr. John Ortiz 405.425.5932 [email protected]


Athletics

Ms. Stephanie Findley 405.425.5355 [email protected]

Students have access to confidential services through the Counseling Center and the Mercy Clinic.

OC Counseling Center 405.425.5250

Mercy Clinic 405.425.6100 2810 E. Memorial Rd., Suite 140

Copyright 2015 by Oklahoma Christian University.


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Full Citations for Readings and Resources

Adler, Mortimer J., and Charles Van Doren. How to Read a Book, rev. ed. New York: Touchstone: 1972.

Al-Hawamdeh, Suliman, and Thomas L. Hart. Information and Knowledge Society. Singapore: Boston, 2002.

Badke, William B. Research Strategies: Finding Your Way Through the Information Fog. New York: IUniverse,Inc, 2008.

Bender, Ross T. "Seminary and congregation: Communities of discernment."Mennonite Quarterly Review39, no. 3 (July 1, 1965): 163-180.

Booth, Wayne C., Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. The Craft of Research. Chicago guides towriting, editing, and publishing. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1995.

Brown, Scott G. A Guide to Writing Academic Essays in Religious Studies. New York: Continuum, 2008.

Calhoun, Adele Ahlberg. Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us. Downers Grove, IL:InterVarsity Press, 2005.

Camp, Phillip G. Finding Your Way: A Guide to Seminary Life and Beyond. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2009.

Core, Deborah. The Seminary Student Writes. St. Louis: Chalice Press, 2000.

Davis, Ellen F., and Richard B. Hays. The Art of Reading Scripture. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2003.

Evison, Ian S. "The digital revolution: Changing the "how" of ministry, not the "what." Congregations27, no.3 (May 1, 2001): 20-21.

Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline. New York: Harper Collins, 1998.

Frambach, Nathan C P. "Models of leadership for the congregation." Word & World20, no. 4 (September 1,

2000): 379-389.

Goatly, Andrew. Critical Reading and Writing: An Introductory Coursebook. London: Routledge, 2000.

Hall, Douglas John. "What is theology?." Cross Currents53, no. 2 (June 1, 2003): 171-184.

Hauerwas, Stanley, and William H. Willimon. "Embarrassed by the church: Congregations and theseminary." Christian Century103, no. 5 (February 5, 1986): 117-120.

Heidt, Mari Rapela. A Guide for Writing About Theology and Religion. Winona, MN: Anselm Academic, 2012.

Jacobs, Alan. "Christianity and the future of the book." New Atlantis: A Journal Of Technology & Society33,(Fall 2011): 19-36.

Johns, Donald A. "Understanding the controversy over gender language in Bible translation."Journal ofReligious & Theological Information6, no. 1 (December 2003): 43-53.

Jones, Tony. The Sacred Way: Spiritual Practices for Everyday Life. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2005.

Laura, Ronald S., and Amy Chapman. "The technologisation of education: Philosophical reflections onbeing too plugged in." International Journal of Children's Spirituality14, no. 3 (Aug 2009): 289-98.


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Lewis, Clive Staples. Introduction to The Incarnation of the Word of God, being the treatise of St. Athanasius,De incarnatione Verbi Dei, by Athanasius and Penelope Lawson, xi-xix. New York: Macmillan: 1946.

Long, Thomas G. "Stolen goods: Tempted to plagiarize." Christian Century124, no. 8 (April 17, 2007): 18-21.

Lyons Sr., Kirk D. "Pauls confrontation with class." Cross Currents(Spring 2006): 116-132.

Maehre, Jeff. "What it means to ban Wikipedia." College Teaching57, no. 4 (Fall 2009): 229-236.

Nouwen, Henri J. M. In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership. New York: Crossroad, 1989.

Peterson, Eugene H. Eat This Book: A Conversation in the Art of Spiritual Reading. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans,2006.

Phillips, Robert. "Plagiarism and theological education."Journal of Religious & Theological Information5, no.2 (January 1, 2002): 3-12.

Place, E., Kendall, M., Hiom, D., Booth, H., Ayres, P., Manuel, A., Smith, P. "Internet Detective: Wise up tothe Web. Intute Virtual Training Suite,http://www.vts.intute.ac.uk/detective/index.html

(accessed August 18, 2010).

Root, Andrew. "A theology of the cross and ministry in our time: How do you call a thing what it iswhen you don't know what the thing is?." Dialog: A Journal Of Theology48, no. 2 (Summer 2009):187-193.

Schultze, Quentin J. Habits of the High-Tech Heart: Living Virtuously in the Information Age. Grand Rapids:Baker Books, 2002.

Snavely, Cynthia A. "God language: Expanding language, expanding concept."Journal Of Religious &Theological Information6, no. 1 (December 2003): 55-68.

Swenson, Kristin. "Biblically challenged." Christian Century126, no. 22 (November 3, 2009): 22-25.

Sweet, Leonard I. "Seminary & congregation: Uneasy alliance." Theology Today40, no. 4 (January 1, 1984):426-430.

Tate, W. Randolph. Interpreting the Bible: A Handbook of Terms and Methods. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2006.

Thielicke, Helmut. A Little Exercise for Young Theologians. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1980.

Turabian, Kate L. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. Chicago: University ofChicago Press, 2007.

Vyhmeister, Nancy J. Your Indispensable Guide to Writing Quality Research Papers: For Students of Religion andTheology. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001.

White, James F., and James T. Burtchaell. "Linguistic injustice": An exchange." First Things: A MonthlyJournal Of Religion & Public Lifeno. 8 (December 1990): 11-13.

Wilson, Henry S. "Globalization for global community: A challenge to ministerial formation." Currents InTheology And Mission30, no. 3 (June 1, 2003): 173-179.

Yaghjian, Lucretia B. Writing Theology Well: A Rhetoric for Theological and Biblical Writers. New York:Continuum, 2006.


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Syllabus IGBS Spring 2015

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Transcript of Syllabus IGBS Spring 2015