____Adult and Graduate Studies News

Integration of Faith Doesn’t Stop in the Classroom, it Affects Life
Contributed by: John Washatka

A distinct characteristic of Adult and Graduate Studies is the integration of faith with learning that occurs in the classroom. The intention by AGS to be integrative within its nontraditional structure reflects Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s commitment to develop a Christian worldview and lifestyle in all students.

“Integration takes place depending on the topic being discussed at any particular moment and with the students involved in the discussion,” said Dr. Randall Wells, vice president for Adult and Graduate Studies. “Ultimately, we want our students to have a better understanding of the relationship between any particular subject matter with a biblical perspective.”

Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Jeremy Strayer, is a facilitating instructor in the Bachelor of Business Administration program, and teaches data development and analysis.

“I’m reminded of the quote by Mark Twain that talks about lies, damn lies, and statistics,” he said. “We have an ethical responsibility to be fair with statistics. Some students think that statistics can be used to support whatever argument they favor. However, we need to do our best to honestly represent the issue.”

Strayer also sees integration laying a foundation for an individual to understand his or her identity. “Everything should flow from a Christian foundation and from studying in a Christian community. I see the integration of faith with learning as being about the foundations of who you are.”

Most instructors in AGS are responsible for integrating a biblical worldview as the course material is considered. Dr. Rick Williamson’s task is a little different. Williamson, professor of religion, teaches Foundations of a Biblical Worldview for the BBA program, as well as other religion classes. He integrates the lives of his students with a biblical worldview.

“I operate from the premise that ‘All truth is God’s truth,’” he said. “The division between faith and learning is artificial. All of my life is an expression of faith. I can’t compartmentalize my faith from the rest of my life.” When discussing biblical topics with his students he challenges them by asking “What difference does it make when I apply this to my marriage, or workplace or relationship?”

“For example,” he said, “we talk about people as bearers of the divine image. So I ask the questions ‘what difference does it make when you regard other individuals as the bearer of God’s image?’ and ‘would you treat them differently?’”

Williamson serves as one of the two assistant chaplains along with Dr. Willie Dishon, associate professor of pastoral ministries. “My role as chaplain gives me an opportunity to talk to students about faith issues springing from classroom experiences,” said Williamson.

“This is where our efforts at integration have many different looks. Our instructors pray and have devotions in class, they challenge students with a biblical worldview and they model what it means to be a Christian. We also have chaplains which relate to students in a context outside of class. All of this is done in a culture which is Christian,” Wells observed.

The goal of integration, then, is to have students learn about a particular subject, and how a Christian perspective should inform their thinking.