Capstone by Integrative Essay (XX9970W)

Content

The Capstone by integrative essay provides students completing Theology and Divinity Masters awards opportunity to demonstrate learning accumulated across their preceding coursework. Students will formulate a distinctive topic, question, or theme for enquiry. An integrative approach will be taken, drawing upon at least two disciplines within theological studies. Students will be expected to use skills developed in their award, including but not limited to, research, examination of texts or the work of a specific author, critically appraisal of scholarship and theological reflection. The results of the enquiry will facilitate questions for exploring further work in scholarly discussion, recommendations for ministry or pastoral settings, or other relevant means of engagement in contemporary settings.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

May only be undertaken within the final two semesters of the Master of Divinity, Master of Theology (Coursework) or Master of Theological Studies

Pedagogy

• Students will integrate learning from their award through seminars and peer review of student work.
• A chosen faculty member will provide supervision for the construction of the theme or topic of inquiry.

Indicative Bibliography

The research and reading for this unit will be determined by the student in consultation with their supervisor. The additional readings below provide frameworks for use in developing a method for theological reflection.

• Anderson, C.B. Ancient Laws and Contemporary Controversies. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2009.
• Brett, M. G. Political Trauma and Healing: Biblical Ethics for a Postcolonial World. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2016.
• Burridge, R. Imitating Jesus: An Inclusive Approach to New Testament Ethics Today. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2007.
• Cameron, H., J. Reader, V. Slater and C. Rowland. Theological Reflection for Human Flourishing. London: SCM Press, 2012.
• Kinast, R. L. Let ministry teach: A guide to theological reflection. Collegeville, MI: The Liturgical Press, 1996.
• Kinast, Robert L. Making faith-sense: Theological reflection in everyday life. Collegeville, MI: The Liturgical Press, 1999.
• Osmer, Richard .. Practical Theology: An introduction. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Pub, 2008.
• Stone, H. W., and J. O. Duke. How to think theologically. 2nd edition. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2006.
• Whipp, M. Pastoral Theology. SCM Studyguide. London: SCM Press, 2013.

Assessment