Module Descriptors
CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN CHURCH AND COMMUNITY MINISTRY
OASS60740
Key Facts
School of Creative Arts and Engineering
Level 6
30 credits
Contact
Leader: Peter Twilley
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 40
Independent Study Hours: 260
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
  • JOURNAL weighted at 30%
  • FIELD WORK - REPORT weighted at 0%
  • ASSIGNMENT weighted at 35%
  • GROUP SEMINAR weighted at 35%
Module Details
Module Learning Strategies
300 hours, of which 40 will be lectures, tutorials and learning groups, a minimum of 80 fieldwork hours, and the rest directed/independent study. Lectures will involve a range of interactive teaching methods.

Key Information Set Data:
13% scheduled learning and teaching activities
60% guided independent learning
27% placement (fieldwork hours)
Module Resources
On-site library and internet access to Staffordshire University Library PCs with standard suite of University software providing access to e-mail, the internet, word processing, etc. Rooms with access for disabled students, and suitable for group work
Module Indicative Content
The aim of this module is to explore the theoretical, theological and professional implications relating to the current and future development of church and community ministry. The theoretical and experiential learning in this module (through student led seminars) supports the developments of communication, problem-solving and goal-setting skills required in this field. Emerging developments and projected future trends are set in the context of social, ecclesial and political changes in the UK, and students will investigate strategic, management and developmental implications for both national and local social policy. Students are encouraged to develop critical evaluation in identifying creative solutions to current and future challenges facing church and community ministry, including working with other faiths. Underlying the analysis of current and future trends is an exploration of philosophical and theological dimensions and global trends related to communities.
Module Additional Assessment Details
1. Journal Entry related to an aspect of professional practice (Learning Outcome 3)
2. A group seminar, presenting for 30 minutes, on a recent text, policy or current issue and facilitate an analytical discussion of the key questions and implications arising from their presentation, relating these to their area of professional practice. (Learning Outcomes 2, 4)
3.An individual assignment on a current trend or issues involved in enabling churches to work with local communities (Learning Outcome 1,2)
4. Field Work Report related to an aspect of professional competency that provides evidence against a national occupational standard or equivalent

Key Information Set Data:
100% coursework
Module Texts
Bretherton, L. (2010), Christianity and Contemporary Politics, Chichester, Wiley-Blackwell.
Goodhew, G. (2012) Church Growth in Britain. 1980-Present. Farnham: Ashgate Press
Hirsch, A. (2007), The Forgotten Ways: Reactivating the Missional Church, Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos Press.
McKnight, S. (2007), A Community Called Atonement, Nashville, Abingdon.
Murray, S (2004), Church After Christendom, Milton Keynes; Paternoster.