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flaja
17th September 2007, 12:19 AM
I don’t know if this particular board is the best place to post this, but my beliefs are likely so out of sync with non-fundamentalists that would post on the other boards that I don’t know that I would gain anything from their input.

I have been looking for a way to use a cash inheritance to promote Christian education. I would like to build a non-profit college prep school that would use a year-round schedule and a greatly modified curriculum. The curriculum will have 300 9-week academic terms (12 calendar years). By the time students complete the curriculum they will be prepared to take at least 8 advanced placement exams and thereby have the equivalent of an associate’s degree in liberal arts before they enter college.

In college, students will then spend 10 academic terms (2 calendar years, or 90 academic weeks) to take 30 courses that pertain specifically to their undergraduate major. Then another 10 academic terms will give them a master’s degree.

Unfortunately I have not been able to find any church or other Christian organization that can or is willing to provide the land to build on and the volunteer labor force needed to build anything. But, in the meantime I have been working on designs for the K-12 and baccalaureate curricula for various academic fields. I will give here a description of the curriculum that will lead to a bachelor’s degree in theology. I’d like to get everyone’s input.

Students will take 3 courses each academic term. Classes for each course will meet each day.

Introduction to Logic
An introduction to the process of constructing logically sound arguments.

The Nature of God
Students will compare and contrast atheism, agnosticism and theism (monotheism, polytheism and pantheism) in order to gain an understanding of God and how humans view Him.

Epistemology
A study of how humans as individuals and as groups determine the truth.

Introduction to Astronomy
Students will gain an understanding of celestial bodies that formed the pantheon for the ancient world and an understanding of how the universe functions in preparation for a study of cosmogony.

The problem of good and evil
An examination of the various ways in which Atheists, Agnostics and Theists identify and explain the origin and purpose of both good and evil.

Introduction to Theology
An examination of the various schools of theology: natural theology, liberation theology

Theology in Popular Culture
An examination of how religion, religious leaders and adherents of various religioius faiths are depicted in popular culture- television, news media and print.

Introduction to Psychology
A study of human psychology designed to give students an understanding of how humans perceive and process information as individuals and in groups.

Introduction to Sociology
Students will examine the fundamentals of how human societies are organized and how they operate.

Introduction to Cosmogony
An examination of various explanations that have been used to explain the origin, structure and operation of the universe from the earliest civilizations to the present day.

Darwinism/Creationism I
A comparison of the theory of Evolution and Creation Science.

Cultic Psychology
An examination of the psychological aspects of cults, the motivation of cultic leaders and the techniques they use to attract and control their followers.

Introduction to Paleontology
A study of the tools and techniques paleontologists use to collect and evaluate fossils.

Darwinism/Creationism II
A survey of the history of the Darwinism-Creationism conflict.

Introduction to Paleography
A study of writing systems and how various written scripts have been discovered and translated.

Mythology I
A study of the myths and legends associated with the Ancient Western Civilization from the Fertile Crescent to the fall of Rome.

History of Life
An examination of the history of life on earth as determined by the earth’s geological and fossil records according to the interpretations of Darwinists/Old Earth Creationists and Young Earth Creationists.

Modern World Religions I
A survey of the origins, history and beliefs of Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism.

Mythology II
A study of the myths and legends of Europe (Celts, Norsemen and various Barbarian Peoples).

Human Origins
A study of the various theories regarding the origin of human beings and their geographic distribution as well as the origin and classification of human languages.

Modern World Religions II
A survey of the origins, history and beliefs of Paganism, neo-paganism (including New Age religions), Tenrikyo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenrikyo), Zoroastrianism (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoroastrianism), Shinto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinto), Cao Dai (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cao_Dai), Jainism (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism), Bahá'í Faith (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%27%C3%AD_Faith), Spiritism (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritism), Juche (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juche), Sikhism (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism)

Mythology III
A study of the myths and legends associated with Asia and the New World.

Modern World Religions III
A survey of the origins, history and beliefs of Chinese folk religions, African folk religions and religions of New World natives.

Bioethics
An examination of current social issues such as abortion, genetic engineering and euthanasia.

Modern World Religions IV
A survey of the origins, history and beliefs of Judaism and Christianity.

Societal Ethics
An examination of how religious beliefs and practice of various faiths influence human societies, namely in the area of politics and economics.

Research I
Students will conduct a research project and then present their findings as both a written and oral report.

Introduction to Parousia
An examination of end of the world scenarios proposed by the world’s religions and mythologies as well as the scientific community.

Modern World Religions VI
An examination of the origins, history and practice of astrology and the occult.

Research II
Students will conduct a research project and then present their findings as both a written and oral report.

I realize that this curriculum is not really specific to Christianity, but I do feel that it addresses certain things that should be addressed, but which conventional Bible schools and seminaries ignore.

kobuk
17th September 2007, 02:05 AM
You could consider teaming up with a reliable christian education organization that can assist you further.

Praying for guidance at this stage and seeking Yah's direction would have to be the main thing right now.

flaja
17th September 2007, 10:01 AM
You could consider teaming up with a reliable christian education organization that can assist you further.

Praying for guidance at this stage and seeking Yah's direction would have to be the main thing right now.


I decided early on that I wouldn’t work with any existing Christian school here in Florida. Our state law doesn’t regulate the curricula or teacher qualifications of private schools, so I don’t know of a single Christian school in Florida that is anything more than a baby-sitting service for kids that either cannot or will not do the work required in public school.


But, I understand that at least some Christian schools in Georgia are of good quality. I have contacted every Christian college I could find in Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas hoping to find one that would let me establish an environmental studies center in exchange for helping me design a K-12 curriculum, but no college is interested. I’ve contacted several K-12 Christian schools in Georgia hoping to get some advice, but these schools won’t even acknowledge my request.

DeaconDean
5th November 2007, 03:44 AM
I decided early on that I wouldn’t work with any existing Christian school here in Florida. Our state law doesn’t regulate the curricula or teacher qualifications of private schools, so I don’t know of a single Christian school in Florida that is anything more than a baby-sitting service for kids that either cannot or will not do the work required in public school.


But, I understand that at least some Christian schools in Georgia are of good quality. I have contacted every Christian college I could find in Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas hoping to find one that would let me establish an environmental studies center in exchange for helping me design a K-12 curriculum, but no college is interested. I’ve contacted several K-12 Christian schools in Georgia hoping to get some advice, but these schools won’t even acknowledge my request.

I guess the main reason why is because your sylibus sings of secular humanism.

Not one thing that is Bible based.

An undergraduate degree at Gardner-Webb University consists of:



Concentrations in the Department

Religion
Religous Thought & Philosophy
Biblical Languages & Literature
Education Studies
Mission Studies
Courses Offered By The Department



RELIGION (RELI)
101 INTRODUCTION TO THE OLD TESTAMENT 3 semester hours
An introduction and survey of the Old Testament focusing upon the history, literature, and faith of the people of Israel and its contemporary relevance. (Credit may not be earned for both Religion 101 and Religion 304.) 3-0-3. Offered each semester.

102 INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW TESTAMENT 3 semester hours
An introduction and survey of the New Testament focusing upon the history, literature and faith that gave rise to Christianity and its contemporary relevance. (Credit may not be earned for both Religion 102 and Religion 305.) 3-0-3. Offered each semester.

243 EVANGELISM 3 semester hours
A study of the biblical basis for evangelistic preaching, teaching, sharing the gospel, and Christian discipleship, locally and abroad. 3-0-3.

245 RELIGION AND CULTURE IN A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE 3 semester hours
The course will explore the relationship between selected cultures of the world and the religious ideas and concepts which inform them. It will examine the impact of religion on culture, as well as the role which culture has played in shaping religious traditions. 3-0-3.

271 SPIRITUAL FORMATION 3 semester hours
An exploration of personal and spiritual development through selfreflection, selfawareness and theological reflection. Attention will be given to biblical foundations, spiritual disciplines, and Christian classics. 3-0-3 Offered each year

302 THE SACRED WRITINGS 3 semester hours
A study of Hebrew poetry and selections of wisdom literature with special reference to its significance in the faith of ancient Israel. 3-0-3.

3-0-3 OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS 3 semester hours
A survey of prophecy in Israel with attention given to the historical settings of the individual prophets and to the relevance of their message. 3-0-3.

306 OLD TESTAMENT THEOLOGY 3 semester hours
An exploration of Old Testament theological themes. 3-0-3.

307 STUDIES IN THE PENTATEUCH 3 semester hours
A critical evaluation of the nature, background, structure, and message of the Pentateuch. 3-0-3.

311 SYNOPTIC GOSPELS 3 semester hours
A study of the person, work, and message of Jesus Christ as presented in the Synoptic Gospels. 3-0-3.

312 LIFE AND LETTERS OF PAUL 3 semester hours
A study of Paul’s life and thought as presented in his Epistles. 3-0-3.

314 NEW TESTAMENT THEOLOGY 3 semester hours
A study of certain key concepts of the New Testament which made a definite contribution to the faith of the Early Church. 3-0-3.

316 THE WRITINGS OF JOHN 3 semester hours
A study of the background and interpretation of the Fourth Gospel, the Epistles of John, and the Book of Revelation. 3-0-3.

317 THE GENERAL EPISTLES AND HEBREWS 3 semester hours
A study of the background, theology, and exegesis of James, I and II Peter, Jude, and Hebrews. 3-0-3.

322 EARLY AND MEDIEVAL CHRISTIANITY 3 semester hours
A survey of the most significant institutional, theological and social developments in the history of the Christian church from the first century through the latter Middle Ages. Prerequisite: History 101. 3-0-3.

323 MODERN CHRISTIANITY 3 semester hours
Beginning with the Reformation this course is descriptive of church history to the present. Prerequisite: History 101. 3-0-3.

324 AMERICAN CHRISTIANITY 3 semester hours
A historical survey of the American religious scene from the colonial period to the present. Primary emphasis is given to the development of the more prominent Christian denominations. 3-0-3.

325 BAPTIST HERITAGE 3 semester hours
A study of the Baptists’ story as well as those convictions and movements which have shaped their life. 3-0-3.

326 CHRISTIAN MISSIONS 3 semester hours
A wide-ranging exploration of the Christian mission, including the background and current status of missions, the strategies and methods of cross-cultural missions, and key issues in missions discussion. 3-0-3.

327 THE RENAISSANCE AND REFORMATION 3 semester hours
An exploration of the major religious, social, intellectual and political changes in Western Europe from the late Middle Ages to the close of the sixteenth century. Particular emphasis is given to the relationship between Italian Humanism and the Protestant Reformation and to the continuity of the movement for Ecclesiastical Reform throughout the period. (Also listed as History 327.) 3-0-3.

333 CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY 3 semester hours
An introduction to the history, methods, and principal topics of Christian theology. 3-0-3.

337 PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION 3 semester hours
An introduction to selected issues raised through a philosophical investigation of religion including, but not confined to, the nature of religious language, the existence of God, the problem of evil, fideism, miracles, revelation, and the challenge of the religions of the world. (Also listed as Philosophy 337) 3-0-3.

341 CHRISTIAN ETHICS 3 semester hours
A systematic study of the nature of morality; a defense of “Christian’’ ethics; and exploration of principles of Biblical ethics. Specific contemporary ethical issues provide the backdrop for discussions. 3-0-3.

346 WORLD RELIGIONS 3 semester hours
An introduction to Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and the religions of China and Japan. 3-0-3.

351 BIBLICAL BACKGROUNDS 3 semester hours
A survey of the history and environment of the biblical world presented either as a travelstudy course to the Near East or as a regular lecture course on the campus. LectureTravel 3 or 3-0-3.

354 ORAL COMMUNICATION IN A CHRISTIAN CONTEXT 3 semester hours
Guided readings and practice in the preparation and delivery of effective sermons. Prerequisite: six hours of religion. 3-0-3.

358 MINISTRY PRACTICUM 3 semester hours
An introduction to the many facets of ministry. The course combines reading, discussion, lectures and reflection with guided experience in a church or other ministry setting. Prerequisite: approval of the department. 2-supervised experience-3.

378 AMERICAN RELIGIOUS GROUPS 3 semester hours
A study of the basic history and teachings of unorthodox American religious groups and how they compare and contrast with orthodox Christianity. Special emphasis will be given to the cult and occult phenomena as well as the electronic and mail order church. 3-0-3.

380 SELECTED TOPICS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES 1-3 semester hours

387 ISSUES IN SCIENCE AND RELIGION 3 semester hours
An interdisciplinary examination of issues which arise at the interface between science and religion. A discussion of the nature of science and religion, ways of relating the two, and historical background will be followed by an exploration of specific topics of contemporary interest. 3-0-3.

397 PASTORAL INTERNSHIP 3 semester hours
A minimum of ten weeks spent in fulltime supervised service in the pastoral work of a local church. Prerequisites: approval of instructor and department. 0-practical experience-3. offered each summer.

491 OLD TESTAMENT SEMINAR 3 semester hours
Through research and creative development, the course explores concepts such as faith, doctrine and religious experience in the Old Testament. Senior standing required. 3-0-3.

492 NEW TESTAMENT SEMINAR 3 semester hours
Through directed readings, discussions and research, the course explores some of the major theological concepts in the New Testament. Senior standing required. 3-0-3.

493 CHURCH HISTORY SEMINAR 3 semester hours
Through research and discussion, an indepth study of some of the major personalities, institutions and periods of the history of the Christian church. Senior standing required. 3-0-3.

494 CONTEMPORARY THEOLOGY SEMINAR 3 semester hours
A seminar consisting of directed readings, discussions and research with attention given to primary sources representative of theological investigation from Schleiermacher to the present. Senior standing required. 3-0-3.

495 INDEPENDENT STUDY 3 semester hours
A course consisting of guided readings, independent research, conferences with the supervising professor, and the production of a final paper reflecting the student’s synthesis of readings, research and conferences. The final paper shall become part of the holdings of the Dover Library. 0-Independent Study-3.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (RGED)
275 BEHAVIORAL FOUNDATIONS FOR RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 3 semester hours
An inquiry into the psychological and sociological principles of human behavior and the relationship of growth and development to the learning process and to religious education instruction. Topics will include motivation, learning styles, cultural differences, and classroom management. 3-0-3. Offered each fall semester.

370 HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 3 semester hours
An inquiry into the biblical, theological, philosophical, and historical, foundations for the practice of Christian education. 3-0-3. Offered each spring semester.

373 CHURCH ADMINISTRATION: LEADERSHIP 3 semester hours
An inquiry into leadership which examines commitment, integrity, skills, polity, policies and procedures related to the individual and to church organization. 3-0-3. Offered each spring semester.

374 PSYCHOLOGY OF RELIGION 3 semester hours
A study of the principles of psychology as related to religious experience designed to assist students in developing insight into one’s own spiritual life (also listed as Psychology 374). Prerequisite: Psychology 201, 280 or permission by the professor. 3-0-3. Offered each spring semester.

376 INTRODUCTION TO YOUTH MINISTRY 3 semester hours
This course is a basic introduction to youth ministry, including the study of current trends in the field, characteristics of youth, methods for reaching and teaching youth. Included will be opportunities for practical ministry experiences, observing others in youth ministry, and studying resources, programs, and activities for effective youth ministry. 3-0-3. Offered each fall semester.

377 TEACHING METHODS 3 semester hours
A study of the educational principles utilized in the religious education of preschoolers, children, youth and adults. Special emphasis will be given to the developmental characteristics of and how to teach effectively people of these age groups. Students will observe and teach in each age group. Prerequisite: Religious Education 275. 3-0-3. Offered each spring semester.

380 SELECTED TOPICS IN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 1-3 semester hours

397 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION INTERNSHIP 3 semester hours
A minimum of ten weeks spent in fulltime supervised service in a local church or Christian affiliated agency. Prerequisites: approval of the instructor and the department. 0-practical experience-3. Offered each summer.

401 INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN COUNSELING 3 semester hours
A study of basic counseling techniques, such as referral, qualifications of the counselor, theories of personality, along with a consideration of basic counseling theories. Special attention will be given to counseling youth. Prerequisites: 6 hours of psychology, 3-0-3. Offered each fall semester.

489 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEACHING SEMINAR 3 semester hours
Guided reading, group discussion, independent research, and teaching opportunities offer the senior student the opportunity to study more deeply the scope of religious education teaching ministry. Prerequisites: Religious Education 377. 3-0-3. Offered each fall.

490 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION RESEARCH SEMINAR 3 semester hours
Guided reading, group discussion, and independent research offer the senior student the opportunity to study more deeply the scope of religious education ministry. Prerequisites: Religious Education 377, 370, and senior standing. 3-0-3. Offered each spring semester. WLII

495 INDEPENDENT STUDY 3 semester hours
An indepth study for seniors majoring in religious studies who wish to write a research project in the field of religious education under the guidance of a faculty member assigned by the department. Prerequisites: approval of the instructor and of the department. 0independent study3. Offered by arrangement.

PHILOSOPHY (PHIL)
200 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY 3 semester hours
An introduction to the major types of philosophy (schools and movements) and the principal problems and questions of human existence. 3-0-3.

201 AN INTRODUCTION TO LOGIC 3 semester hours
An introduction to classical and contemporary logic, emphasizing argumentation and reasoning. Attention to language and its relation to philosophical problems. Examination of the formal laws of valid thought and fallacies found in ordinary discourse. 3-0-3.

337 PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION 3 semester hours
An introduction to selected issues raised through a philosophical investigation of religion including, but not confined to, the nature of religious language, the existence of God, the problem of evil, fideism, revelation, and the challenge of the religions of the world. 3-0-3. (Also listed as Religion 337)

380 SELECTED TOPICS IN PHILOSOPHY 1-3 semester hours

http://www.gardner-webb.edu/academics/departments/religious_studies/courses.html

And these are just for a bachelors degree.

See the difference? And yet you wonder why you haven't been accepted or heard from any here in the Carolinas?

And it gets even harder at the Graduate level.

God Bless

Till all are one