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Title: RES 802: Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Theology
Subtitle: Methods and Applications for Theological Research
Course Name & Level: Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Theology, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Theological Research
1. Introduction:
This course explores qualitative and quantitative research methods used in theological studies. Students will learn how to apply these methodologies to conduct rigorous research in theology.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focusing on qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in theology. Emphasis is placed on data collection, analysis, and interpretation specific to theological inquiry.
3. Course Purpose:
To equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct qualitative and quantitative research in theological studies.
4. Course Objectives:
To explore and apply qualitative and quantitative research methods, enhancing students’ ability to conduct scholarly research in theology.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Qualitative Research: Research that seeks to understand phenomena through the analysis of narrative data, including interviews, observations, and texts.
- Quantitative Research: Research that involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns and relationships.
- Data Collection: The process of gathering information for research purposes.
- Data Analysis: The process of examining and interpreting research data to draw conclusions.
- Theological Inquiry: The study and exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and experiences.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to Research Methods in Theology: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- Qualitative Research Methods: Examination of narrative data collection techniques such as interviews, observations, and focus groups.
- Quantitative Research Methods: Study of numerical data collection techniques such as surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.
- Data Collection Techniques: Methods for gathering qualitative and quantitative data.
- Data Analysis Techniques: Methods for analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.
- Ethical Considerations in Research: Examination of ethical issues and standards in theological research.
- Developing Research Questions: Techniques for formulating effective research questions for qualitative and quantitative studies.
- Literature Review in Theological Research: Conducting comprehensive reviews of existing literature in theology.
- Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Methods: Integrating both methodologies in a single research project.
- Case Studies in Theological Research: Analysis of successful qualitative and quantitative research projects in theology.
- Writing and Presenting Research Findings: Skills for academic writing and presenting research findings.
- Evaluating Research Quality: Techniques for assessing the validity and reliability of research studies.
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 theological studies.
- Literature Review: Comprehensive review of existing literature related to the research topic.
- Research Paper: An in-depth research paper using qualitative and/or quantitative 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 qualitative or quantitative research in theology.
8. Research References:
- Qualitative Research in Theological Studies: Pedagogy and Practice by Nathan M. P. Eubank. eBook format. MLA Citation: Eubank, Nathan M. P. Qualitative Research in Theological Studies: Pedagogy and Practice. Routledge, 2020.
- Research Methods for Theological Studies by Michael S. Heiser. eBook format. MLA Citation: Heiser, Michael S. Research Methods for Theological Studies. Lexham Press, 2016.
- Designing Surveys for Theology and Religious Studies by Christopher M. Jones. eBook format. MLA Citation: Jones, Christopher M. Designing Surveys for Theology and Religious Studies. Anselm Academic, 2018.
- Analyzing Quantitative Data for Theology Research by Gregory J. Seifert. eBook format. MLA Citation: Seifert, Gregory J. Analyzing Quantitative Data for Theology Research. Baker Academic, 2015.
- Ethics in Theological Research: Principles and Practices by Sarah E. Robinson. eBook format. MLA Citation: Robinson, Sarah E. Ethics in Theological Research: Principles and Practices. IVP Academic, 2019.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods in theological studies, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
