BBI-TAITE Units

Curriculum Objectives

This unit focuses on issues of theological concern for religious educators. It enables students to critically analyse theological conceptions of Religious Education; develop skills for articulating the relationship between Theology and Religious Education; and explore issues of practice which arise out of their study in this area.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• demonstrate advanced understanding of the relationship between theology, theological reflection, and religious education
• critically analyse theologies of religious education
• critically evaluate key pedagogical categories to religious education in particular school settings, and
• apply implications of their findings for praxis in religious education.

Assumed Knowledge 

D8120, D8121 & T8106

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures.
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Mr Mark Craig

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This unit provides students with critical insights into early childhood theory and practice and how that relates to and informs effective early years religious education. Students have the opportunity to explore and understand the notion of childhood, the image of the child in contemporary times, and how these assist early years religious educators to respond to students in the religion classroom. Students will also investigate young children’s spiritual promotion, religiosity, and religious education. Finally, specific teaching and learning practices that enable access to key early years religious education topics, such as children’s literature and biblical storytelling, will be evaluated.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of the notion of childhood, and how that contributes to effective early years religious education
• analyse critically the spiritual aspects of young children’s lives and learning, and what opportunities exist for religious education
• demonstrate specialised knowledge and critical understanding of contemporary early childhood education theory and practice, and how that can inform and shape early years religious education
• evaluate critically the effectiveness of specific teaching and learning practices in the early years religion classroom, including children’s literature and biblical storytelling

Assumed Knowledge 

D8120 & D8121

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures.
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Dr Beth Nolan

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

Travelling Inwards, Travelling Outwards is intended to help nurture the interior lives of teachers and thus assist them in meeting the complex challenges of their profession. The unit explores contemporary discourse on topics such as vulnerability and wholeheartedness and considers ways in which this discourse connects with and is extended by the Christian mystical tradition. Contemporary perspectives on the process of interior flourishing are discussed alongside the wisdom for flourishing contained within classical images such as the dark night and the interior castle. Moreover, practices for cultivating interior growth are presented and explored, and the consequences of developing one’s inner life for areas such as leadership and social consciousness and action are considered. Throughout the unit, daily life in the classroom and beyond is regarded as not peripheral to, but rather at the very heart of, interior growth.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• Articulate a sound understanding of key anthropological and theological insights from the Christian mystical tradition and their relevance to educators.
• Reflect upon and critically analyse fundamental anthropological concepts from contemporary discourse on the interior life and their relevance to educators.
• Contemplatively and critically examine the process of interior growth as presented by both contemporary discourse on the interior life and traditional mystical sources, with particular reference to how this growth can unfold within the lives of educators today
• Describe and evaluate practices for cultivating interior growth presented by both contemporary sources and the Christian mystical tradition, with particular reference to how these practices can be enacted within the lives of educators today.
• Demonstrate a creative and critical understanding of the implications of interior growth for leadership and for social consciousness and action.

Assumed Knowledge 

D8120 & D8121

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures.
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Dr Michelle Jones

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This graduate course unit provides students with demonstrated initiative and creativity an opportunity to focus at an advanced level in a particular area of Religious Education, under the tutelage and guidance of a specialist in the field. The unit is designed to refine the skills of independent study by allowing the student to define their own study, and to set their own goals by means of an extended guided reading program.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

• develop a focused topic for independent scholarly investigation
• conduct independent research, under supervision, in terms of locating, utilising and referencing a wide range of appropriate primary and secondary sources
• analyse and evaluate with critical empathy a range of disparate scholarly positions
• defend an independent perspective on the topic of the investigation, and
• produce a cogent set of researched findings in an extended piece of academic writing.

Assumed Knowledge 

D8120, D8121 & D9291

Lecturer

Associate Professor Kath Engebretson

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least 10 hour per week of directed study, including reading, research, consultation with tutor and writing up of assessment tasks.

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This unit provides students with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for graduate study in Theology. It introduces the student to the disciplines of Biblical Studies and Theology. Students will gain a firm foundation of specialised knowledge in these areas and will be ready for further study in Biblical Studies, Theology, Leadership, or Religious Education.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit, students should be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of foundational Catholic theological teachings and their application to current situations
• understand and apply contemporary approaches to interpreting the scriptures
• utilise key theological terms
• appreciate the value of ongoing learning in theology

Assumed Knowledge 

Not Applicable

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures.
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Session 1 – Professor Gerard Moore
Session 2 – Dr Cristina Lledo Gomez
Session 3 – Dr Cristina Lledo Gomez

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This course unit introduces students to the critical study of the Bible, its literary forms, historical and cultural contexts, and theological themes. It provides a foundation for further biblical and theological study.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• analyse the major narratives, themes and structures of the books of the Bible
• assess the significance of the main historical, social and cultural factors that provided the context of the composition of the Bible
• engage critically with significant introductory secondary literature in the study of the Bible
• utilise basic skills in performing historical-critical exegesis of Biblical texts, and
• apply insights from their study to Christian life and ministry within their particular context.

Assumed Knowledge 

Not applicable

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of

• At least one hour per week for online lectures
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Dr Jonathan Thambyrajah

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

BBI-TAITE is an associate member of the Catholic Biblical Federation

Curriculum Objectives

This graduate course unit is designed to provide students with an understanding of the person and saving work of Jesus Christ. It seeks to explore this understanding in the light of contemporary Christian thought and life.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• outline the key biblical material that provides the foundation for a theological understanding of the person and saving work of Christ
• explain the significance of the various strands of Christological and soteriological thought
• analyse critically a range of primary and secondary texts by relevant theological thinkers
• use appropriate methods of critical theological reflection to interpret the major doctrines in Christology and Soteriology
• apply insights from their study to Christian life and ministry within their particular context

Assumed Knowledge 

T8106 and B8101

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of

• At least one hour per week for online lectures
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Dr Charles Waddell

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This independent directed study critically integrates the theories and concepts introduced in a particular subject in the Cornerstones program. The designated subject is chosen by the student.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• demonstrate a critical understanding of the foundational theological issues for Catholic teachers
• apply critically a range of theological understandings of Catholic practice in the Catholic Schools context
• research and develop student appropriate, critically grounded responses to theological issues raised in the classroom
• appreciate the value of critical theological understanding for fulfilling the mission of Catholic education.

Assumed Knowledge 

Nil

Study hours

11 hours per week for 11 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures
• At least four hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Professor Gerard Moore

Teaching methods

Online lectures; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Curriculum Objectives

This graduate course unit introduces students to concepts that provide a foundation for the study of Christian worship, including an introduction to the principles and practices of liturgy and its underpinning theology within the Catholic tradition. It examines the nature of Christian ritual and liturgy, and its origins and development. There is a special focus on the significant reforms of the Second Vatican Council through a critical exploration of key liturgical documents and rites, including an overview of the sacraments. Students will explore a variety of questions and issues concerning contemporary liturgy.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• demonstrate a critical knowledge of history, structure, and symbolism of particular rites
• articulate a sound comprehension of the spiritual richness and transformative power of liturgical rites
• employ a ritual framework to devise rites and sacramental expressions where required and evaluate its effects
• give appropriate pastoral expression to liturgical rites, and
• participate with greater intellectual and spiritual awareness in the worship and mysteries of the Church.

Assumed Knowledge 

T8106 and B8101

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of

• At least one hour per week for online lectures
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Lecturer

Prof Gerard Moore

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.

Abstract

This graduate course unit enables students to appreciate, via a detailed study of the key works of selected theologians, that theology is an evolving and historically embedded discipline.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

• critically engage with the historical context and methodological approaches of selected theologians
• critically evaluate the primary concerns and specific theological contributions of selected theologians
• critically analyse the writings of at least two theologians to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and substantiate their stances
• interpret and appraise the relevance of selected theologians for Christian life and practice today, and
• synthesis and apply the chief insights of selected theologians in answering contemporary questions in theology

Assumed knowledge or prerequisites

It will be expected that students have successfully completed THEO800 & THEO801  from the BBI Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies, unless otherwise approved by the unit coordinator. Students who enter the Master of Theological Studies with the equivalent of prior study in theology or a cognate discipline at the Graduate Certificate level will be understood to have met this requirement.

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• Directed supervision and directed reading

Lecturer

Dr Gerard Moore

Teaching methods

Online Directed Supervision

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.