ERIC Number: ED556072
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 254
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-1-3035-4154-4
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
A Study of the Objectives for the Theological Preparation of Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Elementary Teachers
Rockrohr, Deborah L.
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, Regent University
This study examined current practice in the area of theological preparation for Lutheran elementary teachers of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS). As a church body with a well-defined doctrine, the LCMS requires a particular preparation for all ordained and commissioned workers placed on its official roster. A historical review of archival data from primary and secondary sources documented a strong and persistent interest in the LCMS in providing a thorough theological preparation for its pastors, teachers, and other rostered workers. Two previous curriculums for the theological preparation of Lutheran teachers were identified (Bickel & Schmieding, 1938; Curriculum Commission, Board for Higher Education, The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, 1967a, 1967b), but neither is in use today. Standardized curriculum guidelines for the theological preparation of Lutheran elementary teachers are not currently provided by the denomination. Six theological subdisciplines deemed important by the LCMS for training Lutheran teachers were identified: Beliefs of Other Religions, Biblical Interpretation, Church History, Doctrine, Lutheran Confessions, and Ministry of the Lutheran Teacher. The 2009-2010 academic year was selected as a snapshot year to examine current practice. All 10 Concordia University System institutions participated by providing copies of faculty-approved syllabi for the theological preparation of Lutheran elementary teachers in the traditional undergraduate route. These artifact documents were examined using content analysis research methodology. Results of the study indicated disparity in training among and between the institutions. In addition, inattention to specific theological subdisciplines of instruction valued by the LCMS--sometimes rather consistently among the institutions--was also documented. The current lack of focused curricular guidelines for the theological preparation of Lutheran elementary teachers is not consistent with evidence that suggested a uniformly well-trained roster of teachers is highly valued by the LCMS. Development of standardized guidelines at the synodical level is recommended. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Educational Objectives, Theological Education, Elementary School Teachers, Teacher Education, Biblical Literature, Teaching Methods, Churches, Clergy, Religious Education, Beliefs, History, Curriculum, Course Descriptions, Content Analysis, Guidelines, Standards
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Missouri
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A