ME505: Communication Strategies (4 units)
Viggo Søgaard, Associate Professor of Communication
Fall 2003 Pasadena

DESCRIPTION:

The work of the church and missionary organizations is primarily one of communication. This course will provide a Christian communication approach to evangelism, mission, development, teaching, and organizations, based on principles derived from a study of Scriptures and modern communication theories. God has demonstrated in Scripture how to communicate effectively. The insights will be applied to the development of integrated communication strategies and the selection of appropriate methods and media for effective ministry.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

The students will have a comprehensive understanding of communication principles as they apply to the Christian Mission, and they will be able to use the appropriate models and strategic tools.

CLASS FORMAT:

This is a two-week intensive. Class meets daily for three hours.

REQUIRED READING:

Kraft, Charles H. Communication Theory for Christian Witness. Revised edition. Maryknoll: Orbis Books, 1991.
Smith, Donald K. Creating Understanding: A Handbook for Christian Communications Across Cultural Landscapes. Grand Rapids, IL: Zondervan, 1992.
Søgaard, Viggo B. Media in Church and Mission: Communicating the Gospel. Pasadena: William Carey Library, 1993.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. One to two pages (250-500 words) interactive response papers to each of three assigned books.
2. One short test.
3. One term paper (15-20 pages/3750-5000 words) that develops a comprehensive communication strategy for a specific mission or church project.
Th.M. Students: Prepare an annotated bibliography for selected communication books.

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: May be substituted in lieu of MB530 or ME506 to meet the Communication Core Competency

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.

Last Date Edited: July 9, 2003