Assessment

Continuous Assessment 20% + Class presentation 20% + Essay 60%

Module Aims

The aim of this undergraduate module is to provide an introductory exploration of important topics and issues in the field of Fundamental Theology, which offers an introduction to Christian Theology as an academic discipline. In this module, learners will engage with questions about the relation between revelation and reason, tradition and Scripture, philosophy and theology, faith and knowledge. This module introduces the core tenets of Christian theism to gain a more informed perspective about how the content of Christian doctrine can be presented in a coherent way.

Indicative Syllabus

• Week One: Introduction to relevant topics & issues in Fundamental Theology
• Week Two: Traditions of Christian Theology
• Week Three: Areas of Theological Study
• Week Four: The Problem of God: Faith & Reason
• Week Five: Sources and sub-disciplines of Theology
• Week Six: The natural knowledge of God
• Week Seven: The existence of God
• Week Eight: Divine revelation
• Week Nine: The act and content of faith
• Week Ten: Theological Method
• Week Eleven: Interpreting Scripture
• Week Twelve: Theology in the University

Learning Outcomes

• — Grasp and explain classic theological concepts and positions to interpret theological ideas using relevant terms, tasks, sources, and methods.
• — Demonstrate comprehension by summarizing the logic and underlying assumptions of theological viewpoints.
• — Apply critical thinking skills during class discussions, written assignments, and group presentations to use the acquired knowledge and skills to assess and analyze theological perspectives.
• — Analyse and evaluate the logic and presuppositions inherent in theological positions to formulate informed perspectives based on course materials and assessments, displaying a deep understanding.
• — Demonstrate the ability to create thoughtful and engaging discussion questions that stimulate critical thinking and deep analysis of theological texts to enhance speaking, writing, and reading skills specific to theological texts through practice and application.

Bibliography

• — Bauerschmidt & Buckley – Introduction to Catholic Theology (2017)
• — Matthew L. Becker, Fundamental Theology (2015)
• — Bible: https://www.biblegateway.com/