Theological Action Research

This note is a response to the proposed use of the four voices in teaching a module on Futurism and Theology at the University of Divinity, Melbourne, Australia.  The module has been written and taught by Professor Glen O’Brien and Dr Arseny Ermakov of Eva Burrows College.  They sent me the module outline for comment and then interviewed me as part of the module resources.

This note is my feedback to them

This article describes our attempt to use an abbreviated version of action research in an integrated learning module of the Theology Program at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary in Beirut, Lebanon. Practical theological and theological educators can make effective use of this social scientific method within the context of the theological school. Among the benefits of action research are the development of reflective practitioners, the encouragement interactive reflection and learning, and the facilitation of contextualization in theological research.

Chapter Abstract (Ch. 12) Action research is already used in doctoral studies, particular in fields such as community development. In light of the strong biblical emphasis on obedience, application of truth, and a preference for the marginalized, action research has already begun gaining traction as a significant form of theological research. At ABTS we have experimented with the approach in a masters' level project, a process documented by Caleb Hutcherson in a recent article for Insights. Bassem Melki is using an action research methodology in his doctoral project in peace studies. In this chapter, Caleb and Bassem explore how action research might be more valuable approach for majority world advanced theological studies.