Course Descriptions and Goals (Last Revised 5/19/99)

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    In order to better understand the nature of each of the survey classes, the following materials are brought together from relevant parts of the university undergraduate catalogue. The courses Religion 101/304 and 102/305 grow out of the university statement of purpose which is the basis for the purpose statement of the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy. The learning goals are derived from the purpose statement. Lastly, the course descriptions seek to address relevant aspects of the department purpose and goals statements.
    You should read through these carefully for better understanding of the basis for the learning activities required by your professor.

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Statement of Department Purpose:

"For each student enrolled in the undergraduate and GOAL programs, the department offers an introduction to the Old and New Testaments. These introductions offer a survey of the history and faith of the communities out of which the texts emerge. They are intentionally placed in the context of a liberal arts education." (current undergraduate catalogue under Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy) 

Specific goals for this purpose are as follows:
The department seeks to lead each undergraduate student enrolled in the survey courses to demonstrate the ability to:

1. identify and discuss the significance of the major people, places, events, themes, and types of literature in the Old and New Testaments.
2. trace the historical development of the canons of the Old and New Testaments.
3. identify, assess, and utilize appropriate resources in biblical interpretation.
4. utilize the principles of critical analysis in interpreting a passage of Scripture.

Religion course descriptions:
The catalogue course descriptions below grow out of the above purpose statement with the accompanying learning goals. Each course seeks to implement relevant aspects of the purpose and goals statements. The purpose and goals statements in turn grow out of the larger university statement of purpose, located in the undergraduate catalogue under the heading, The Purpose of Gardner-Webb University.

101. INTRODUCTION TO THE OLD TESTAMENT 3 semester hours

An introduction and survey of the Old Testament focusing upon the history, literature, and faith of the people of Israel.(Credit may not be earned for both Religion 101 and Religion 304.) 3-0-3. offered each semester.

304. OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY 3 semester hours

An introduction and survey of the Old Testament focusing upon the history, literature, and faith of the people of Israel. (Credit may not be earned for both Religion 101 and Religion 304). 3-0-3.

102. INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW TESTAMENT 3 semester hours

An introduction and survey of the New Testament focusing upon the history, literature and faith that gave rise to Christianity. (Credit may not be earned for both Religion 102 and Religion 305.) 3-0-3. offered each semester.

305. NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY 3 semester hours

An introduction and survey of the New Testament focusing upon the history, literature and faith that gave rise to Christianity. (Credit may not be earned for both Religion 102 and Religion 305). 3-0-3.