The implications of intentionality towards creative transformation in church teaching

Abstract

This study on the implications of intentionality for creative transformation in church teaching is a qualitative study. It is an attempt to explain and identify the related meanings of intentionality, as well as look for variations of the concept of intentionality from the two groups (conversation and non-conversation groups) involved, using a dialogical and relational approach to teaching. This exploratory study strives to anchor on Biersdorf and Campbell’s concept of intentionality, the Biblico-theological bases of teaching, and Thomas Groome’s "shared praxis" approach to Christian education and nurture. Involved in this study are teachers of the Cotabato Annual Conference of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines, ages 25-60, Christian educators and lay workers as respondents of interviews and survey questioners. All are involved in the nurture and educational ministry of the church, particularly; Sunday School, Bible Studies, confirmation and neighborhood activities. Four methods were used to gather data, namely; participant-observation, library research, interview and survey through questionnaires developed by the researcher. Responses gathered were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The responses from the survey were quantitatively analyzed. Responses from interviews and study-reflection process were qualitatively analyzed according to the quality of responses and they were categorized under answer categories. Findings showed that personal experience, personal-related activities, church and community orientation were found to greatly affect and influence the approaches and processes in the practice of teaching. A redirection on the teaching and assessment of approaches, methods, processes and skills, particularly on teaching for creative transformation needs to be addressed. Finally, researchers must be motivated to pursue studies on the same topic exploring different approaches, processes and models.