RES 801: Advanced Research Methods in Biblical Studies

Title: RES 801: Advanced Research Methods in Biblical Studies

Subtitle: Techniques and Approaches for Scholarly Biblical Research

Course Name & Level: Advanced Research Methods in Biblical Studies, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Research Methods, Biblical Studies, Scholarly Research

1. Introduction:

This course provides an in-depth study of advanced research methods used in biblical studies. Students will learn various techniques and approaches to conduct scholarly research in the field.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on research methodologies in biblical studies. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in critical analysis, data collection, and academic writing specific to biblical scholarship.

3. Course Purpose:

To equip students with advanced research skills and methodologies for conducting scholarly research in biblical studies.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore and apply advanced research methods and techniques, enhancing students’ ability to conduct rigorous and scholarly research in biblical studies.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Research Methods: Systematic approaches to gathering and analyzing information.
• Exegesis: Critical explanation or interpretation of biblical texts.
• Hermeneutics: The study of the principles and methods of interpreting the Bible.
• Textual Criticism: The scholarly study of ancient manuscripts to determine the original text.
• Qualitative Research: Research that seeks to understand phenomena through the analysis of narrative data.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Research Methods: Overview of the course and its objectives.
• Historical-Critical Method: Examination of historical context and its impact on biblical texts.
• Literary Analysis: Techniques for analyzing the literary structure and features of biblical texts.
• Textual Criticism: Study of ancient manuscripts to reconstruct the original text of the Bible.
• Exegesis and Hermeneutics: Methods for interpreting and explaining biblical texts.
• Sociological and Anthropological Approaches: Applying social sciences to understand biblical texts.
• Theological Research Methods: Techniques for studying and interpreting theological concepts in the Bible.
• Ethnographic Research: Study of cultural contexts and their influence on biblical texts.
• Qualitative and Quantitative Methods: Application of these methods to biblical research.
• Developing Research Questions: Techniques for formulating effective research questions.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Methods for gathering and analyzing research data.
• Writing and Presenting Research: Skills for academic writing and presenting research findings.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of research methods and concepts.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
• Research Proposal: Development of a research proposal on a chosen topic in biblical studies.
• Literature Review: Comprehensive review of existing literature related to the research topic.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper using advanced research methods.
• Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the course material.
• Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and group activities.
• Presentation: A presentation on a significant aspect of research methods in biblical studies.

8. Research References:

• Introduction to Biblical Research by Joseph A. Fitzmyer. eBook format. MLA Citation: Fitzmyer, Joseph A. Introduction to Biblical Research. Eerdmans, 1998.
• The Modern Researcher by Jacques Barzun and Henry F. Graff. eBook format. MLA Citation: Barzun, Jacques, and Henry F. Graff. The Modern Researcher. Wadsworth, 2004.
• Research Methods for Biblical Studies by Michael S. Heiser. eBook format. MLA Citation: Heiser, Michael S. Research Methods for Biblical Studies. Lexham Press, 2016.
• The Craft of Research by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. eBook format. MLA Citation: Booth, Wayne C., Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. The Craft of Research. University of Chicago Press, 2008.
• Textual Criticism of the Hebrew Bible by Emanuel Tov. eBook format. MLA Citation: Tov, Emanuel. Textual Criticism of the Hebrew Bible. Fortress Press, 2012.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of advanced research methods in biblical studies, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.