Program Overview

Introduction to THL361 Theology International Study Experience

This subject is provided in recognition of a student's full and compliant participation in an International Short Term Program. Programs will typically consist of a 3 or 4 week cultural and educational program in an international setting involving students living in another country, engaging in studies of culture, language, history, archaeology, art, etc. with visits to sites of cultural and educational significance, and intercultural engagement with local peers. Programs may include some practical experience in an educational or cultural setting.

Availability

• Session 1 (30) On Campus at Ming Hua Theological College
• Term 1 (75) On Campus at Ming Hua Theological College

Subject Information

Grading System

SY/US

Duration

One session

School

School of Theology

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is open to all School of Theology students participating in an approved International Short Term Program.

Assumed Knowledge

A basic knowledge of biblical history and literature, such as covered in THL105 and THL106.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to demonstrate an improved ability to think globally and consider issues from other cultural perspectives
• be able to demonstrate an awareness of their own culture and its perspectives, and other cultures and their perspectives
• be able to appreciate the importance of multicultural diversity to professional practice in their field of study
• be able to better appreciate the complex and interacting factors that contribute to notions of culture and cultural relationships
• be able to value diversity of language and culture
• be able to demonstrate improved cross-cultural communication skills and some facility with local language
• be able to demonstrate improved social, cultural and educational knowledge and understanding of the specific context of the international experience
• be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• The syllabus will vary from one type of international study experience to another, but the following example indicates the syllabus for the Bethsaida Excavations Project
  • Orientation to and survey of the geography, geology, history and archaeology of Bethsaida
  • Fieldwork in archaeological loci
  • Elementaries of land surveying, taking elevation, operating a transit and elementary cartography
  • Elementaries of professional photography of archaeological sites and finds
  • Maintaining database and recording excavation log
  • Section drawing and operating a transit
  • Lab works, sorting cataloguing and recording finds
  • Essential pottery analysis
  • Processual archaeology, preparing finds to further research
  • Attending evening lectures on archaeology, history and geography of the Land of Israel
  • Optional weekend tours to see other archaeological and religious sites

Special Resources

A period of overseas travel including participation in an approved academic program is required for this subject. The overseas study experience may be offered by an Australian university or an overseas higher education institution, and will involve not less than three weeks outside Australia.