Theology Among The People (TAP)
TAP is a judicatory-based program of theological education designed to help participants discover their own theologies and develop their ministerial skills within the context of an intentional learning community.
The TAP program is founded on the principles of Adult Education. While adults’ learning styles vary, research reveals a set of common principles that are helpful to those who engage in the “teaching/learning transaction” with adults. Accordingly, adults learn best when …*
- The learning environment feels safe and supportive through respect, community, collaboration, mentors or models, good organization;
- Their interest is engaged through the challenge of cognitive dissonance, layers of reflection, openness to the unexpected;
- Their learning is grounded in their experience by application to life situations in the here and now, being treated as knowers, having their needs met;
- They are self-directed by learning how to learn; having control over the learning process, unlearning inaccurate knowledge and dysfunctional habits, engaging in self-evaluation;
- Their education speaks to mind, heart, and soul through symbol, imagination, ritual.
Understanding that language helps shape perceptions of others and self, TAP “students” are called “participants” and “teachers” are called “facilitators.” This attention to language helps to create the kind of atmosphere where power is truly shared and creative learning can take place.
* From The Art of Teaching the Bible: A Practical Guide for Adults by Christine Eaton Blair, 2001, Geneva Press.
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