Issues and Trends in Next Generation Ministry – CHMN 841
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 04/08/2024
Course Description
This course explores the cultural trends and issues impacting the current generation of children, adolescents, and their families. Current and developing trends will be evaluated from theological and sociological perspectives in the context of local church ministry. Research related to the future of next generation ministry will be initiated to further the church’s effective response to these issues.
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
Every area of life and ministry as well as all academic disciplines change over time. The elements that influence those changes can vary from constructive to destructive. Next Generation ministry leaders are on watch for these influential developments that shape the faith and practice of a biblical worldview in the lives of young people and their parents. Observations alone are simply not adequate in the efforts to equip parents and next generation ministry leaders. These leaders must access strong research and produce additional research so that next generation ministry leaders are thoroughly equipped for what lies ahead in missional efforts of the body of Christ, at home, at church, and in the community.
Course Assignment
Textbook readings and lecture presentations
Course Requirements Checklist
After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in Course Overview.
Discussion: Thread and Replies (3)
Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt for each forum. Each thread must be 400 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 150 words. (CLO's: A, B, D, E)
Book Critique Assignments (2)
After reviewing the Book Critique Assignment Instructions, students will write two book reviews on the books listed below. The student will prepare a 750-1,000 word book critique for each of the following texts:
Crouch, Andy. 2017. The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. ISBN: 9780801018664
Hill, Jackie Perry. 2018. Gay Girl, Good God: The Story of Who I Was, and Who God Has Always Been. Nashville, TN: B&H Books. ISBN: 9781462751228 (CLO's: A, B, D, E)
Training Seminar: Annotated Bibliography Assignment
The student is required to submit a 900-1,200-word bibliography sketch in preparation for the “Training Seminar: Project Assignment.” This sketch will include an anticipated thesis statement and a bibliography of at least 20 related works adhering to current Turabian format. This bibliography sketch must contain at least 5 books and 5 articles related directly to the anticipated thesis, and may contain no more than 5 Internet sources. (CLO: C)
Training Seminar: Project Assignment
The student will submit a paper on a topic that focuses on developing a conference style seminar session on issues and trends in next generation ministry. This should be directed toward parents and leaders of next generation ministries. The student must demonstrate strong critical reflection on the subject and accurate handling of the biblical text. The paper must be a minimum of 4,000 words and is not to exceed 5,000 words. (CLO's: A, B, C, D, E)
Course Reflection Assignment
The student will write a 1,000–1,200-word reflection essay in current Turabian format. The essay will answer the question “How has this course shaped your thinking in the following areas related to issues and trends in next generation ministry: 1) theological framework for evaluating issues & trends, 2) identification of current trends affecting families, and 3) equipping parents and leaders for family life amidst changing cultural landscapes. (CLO's: D, E)
