T8101 Introducing Theology

Unit code T8101

Unit name Introducing Theology

Unit weighting 9 cp

Prerequisites N/A

Exclusions T7101 Introduction to Theology; T8102 Theology I: Indigenous Perspectives

Curriculum objective This graduate course unit introduces students to the nature and tasks of theology and to theological method. It provides a foundation for all future theology course units.

Learning outcomes At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Engage with the nature, task, purpose, and presuppositions of theology
2. Evaluate the current trends and developments in the field of theology
3. Analyse key theological texts, ancient and modern
4. Develop an appropriate theological method for particular theological tasks
5. Apply the skills of theological reflection to life in the community of faith

Content

1. The nature and purpose of theology
2. Sources for doing theology
3. Overview of history of theology
4. Theological method
5. Presuppositions for doing theology
6. Context for theology
7. The vocation of the theologian

Assessment profile In this unit, the required assessment tasks will enable students to demonstrate how successfully they can:

1. Engage with a theological issue or a theme or a perspective in theology (e.g., critical review, literature review) [Outcomes 1 and 2]
2. Evaluate the theological contribution of a major theologian or a key theological text (e.g., evaluation paper, critical essay) [Outcome 3]
3. Analyse a theological method and apply it to a particular context or issue in relation to Christian faith and practice (e.g., research paper) [Outcome 4 and 5]