Anderson University School of Theology Outcomes Assessment Report Master of Arts in Christian Ministry Graduates of

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1 Tools Used in the MACM Outcomes Assessment 1. Academic transcripts. Anderson University School of Theology Outcomes Assessment Report Master of Arts in Christian Ministry Graduates of Survey Monkey of peers and parishioners of graduates (Appendix). 3. Exit survey of graduates. I. Knowledge Goal: Graduates will demonstrate understanding of biblical literature, church history, theology, and the practice of ministry. A. Objective 1: Graduates will have a mean Grade Point Average of 3.5 or higher in all of their courses in Bible, church history, theology, and practice of ministry. (Note that each student must achieve a of 3.0 or higher to graduate.) 1. Discuss tool used to measure objective The tool used was each student s academic transcript. 2. Data results Year Number of Graduates Mean Bible Mean Church History Mean Theology Mean Practice of Ministry Totals Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective was achieved in all but two highlighted cases. Even in the two highlighted cases, the Mean is 3.2+ (where a 3.0 is required for graduation). B. Objective 2: A random sample of parishioners and peers of graduates will evaluate graduates understanding of biblical literature, church history, theology, and practice of ministry as a mean score of 3 or higher, on a scale of 0 to Discuss tool used to measure objective We created a survey in Survey Monkey and asked the 21 graduates each to the link to ten members of their congregations, selected at random. In addition, we ed the link to pastors who live and work in geographical proximity to the graduates, and asked them to complete the survey if they felt that they knew the graduates well enough to give useful answers. 2. Data results We received 138 responses to the survey. The average rating on understanding of biblical literature was 3.77; on church history 3.74; on theology 3.79; and on practice of ministry 3.69.

2 3. Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective was met. II. Skills Goal: Graduates will demonstrate an increased level of ministerial skills in their context. A. Objective 1: On an Exit Survey, administered six months after commencement, 100% of graduates will document specific and measurable ministerial skills that were increased as a result of their participation in this degree. 1. Discuss tool used to measure objective Six months after commencement, the Exit Survey was ed to all graduates. It had the following question in it: What specific ministerial skills of yours would you say were increased as a result of your participation in the online degree? 2. Discuss data results from each tool Eighteen of the 21 graduates wrote: 1. The ability to see the whole picture and view situations/opportunities from more than one vantage point. 2. I am not sure it was as much the ministry skills as it was the minister (myself). I needed the challenge and approach to renewed learning and the academic challenge. Because of the time spent at the School of Theology and the learning process I have a more pragmatic and open approach to ministry and the needs of the people around me. This has caused me to have a broader view of ministry and ministry possibilities. I believe this will be the difference between surviving the next twenty years of ministry and being successful over the next twenty years. 3. Rightly dividing the word of truth. My knowledge of Bible and theology were wonderfully stretched, as were my skills in exegeting the Scriptures. One thing that was extremely beneficial to me was training in pastoral health and self-care. 4. My biblical interpretation methods and skills have improved. Instead of using the Bible as a means of proof texts, I am now able to understand and look for themes that flow throughout the Bible. As a result, I believe that these improvements have affected all areas of my teaching preparation and my preaching. Additionally, my online degree has helped me realize that things are not black and white, or right and wrong. I now understand the importance of realizing that many gray areas exist in our understanding and application of theology to everyday life. I would not trade my educational experience for anything! 5. My ability to dig deeper into the understanding of the Scriptures along with my personal discipline. 6. There is no doubt that the online program has enhanced my computer abilities. This has aided me in my other ministerial duties; I now type things for myself instead of asking my wife to do it for me. However silly that may sound, it is a major blessing to me to have the confidence I now have. The most important change in my ministerial life is in the knowledge I have gained and the insight I gained for how to find more knowledge. I call it my PATHS (Pay Attention To His Scriptures) of growth. I follow His intent from passage-to-passage, Old Testament to New Testament and back again, and I have "NO FEAR" of what I discover. However, I believe the most important change in my life after seminary is seen in the day-to-day working with the church family in assisting them in gleaning knowledge from the Bible and my educational experience enriches this process. The requirement to teach five hours in each class I took in seminary started a process in which the people were asking me each week what I have been learning. This has carried over and into our church community discussions. Due to the intensity of the seminary rhetoric concerning community, I have noticed I have addressed the need of "community" more and more, and the result has created a sweet spirit of cooperativeness. 7. Critical Thinking, ability to access better resources, clear understanding of scripture and Church history 8. My knowledge of the Bible, circumstances surrounding the events in the Bible, self-care, how to study the Bible...thinking about the big picture...how to deal with problems in church...etc Curriculum development, Teaching prep. 10. Two specific skills have been honed and awakened within me during the course. The first is theological reflection and study. Because of the exposure to the class lectures, reference materials/textbooks and the professors, I have greater confidence and understanding during my work of study, preaching and teaching. Second, especially during the Capstone Practice of Ministry God has directed me towards an interest in persons who are suffering with terminal illness: both the patient and caregiver. Because of this interest I am sensing God s direction towards the chaplain ministry. 11. A solid working knowledge of theology and Scriptural interpretation as well as hands-on practice of both engaging in and leading the journey of Christian spirituality for others. My character was strengthened through the program as well, and I was equipped with tools to understand local church leadership and congregational dynamics. Maybe most importantly, I was taught how to learn. I was given the tools to figure out complex problems, both theologically and relationally. These have made a world of difference already in my ministry work. 12. I think the ability to apply research and learning to my preaching and teaching gifts.

3 13. Many of my skills were increased such as: (1) My Research ability has increased to find out the most accurate information and deliver it in such a manner where people are getting saved. (2) My Hunger for more of God has increased. (3) I have the ability to deliver a clear and concise anointed message. 14. Research, Study, being able to develop a theological basis for which drives what I/we do as a church. 15. My understanding of missiology has vastly increased, so much so that it has inspired me to pursue further education in this discipline. I have also experienced enhancement in biblical exegesis, pastoral care and overall teaching and preaching skills. 16. I believe the ministerial skill that has been greatly increased through this degree is in the area of helping the church see the need to be the hope of the world teaching and living Jesus Christ. I am more confident in what I am called to do within the body of Christ, casting vision and calling out to the body to work together, to come alongside each other to be the hands and feet of the Christ to a lost world. I am confident in whom has called me, and in Him working through my weaknesses even though many are not for this and are satisfied with the status quo of existence. 17. The skills that I increased in the most are, without a doubt, research techniques and academic writing. I had not done any of this since graduating from school many years ago. With computer access, the amount of information available is overwhelming. Once I learned how to use the computer, a whole new world of theological learning was opened to me. My work toward the online degree was challenging, but was a wonderful experience. 18. Knowledge and an increased awareness of resources out there for continued learning. 3. Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective has been achieved. B. Objective 2: A random sample of parishioners and peers of graduates will evaluate graduates increase in ministerial skills as a mean score of 2.5 or higher, on a scale of 0 to Discuss tool used to measure objective The same Survey Monkey survey referenced above included an item in which respondents were asked to evaluate the degree to which the graduate s ministerial skills increased as a result of participation in the degree. It gave them five choices: No increase (0), A little increase (1), Some increase (2), Much increase (3), and A huge increase (4). 2. Discuss data results from each tool We received 138 responses to the survey. The average rating was Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective has been achieved. III. A.U. Mission Goal: Graduates will demonstrate passion for lifelong learning and improvement in ministry knowledge and skills. (This connects with the Anderson University mission at the point of a life of faith and service in the church. ) A. Objective 1: On an Exit Survey, administered six months after commencement, 100% of graduates will report specific and measurable plans for lifelong learning and improvement in ministry knowledge and skills. 1. Discuss tool used to measure objective Six months after commencement, the Exit Survey was ed to all graduates. It had the following questions in it: (1) Now that you are six months past graduation, what specific plans do you have for lifelong learning? (2) What specific plans do you have for improvement in your ministry knowledge and skills? 2. Discuss data results from each tool On the question concerning specific plans for lifelong learning, 19 of the 21 graduates wrote: 1. A key part will be reading and continuing to keep current and mentally challenged. I will be attending conferences that are academically based. 2. Nothing formal as of now. Just continued personal study.

4 3. Reading or re-reading books (including several texts from the online program). Following blogs from "successful" church leaders (learning from their experiences). Searching for online opportunities to pursue a more advanced degree. 4. Reading and continuing to keep current and mentally challenged. Attending conferences that are academically based. 5. Subscribe to resources to keep abreast of issues that relate to Christian leadership. Attend conferences and seminars. 6. Increasing the educational aspect of my life more than I ever did prior to my seminary education. Working on a new ministry, a "Pastoring Pastors" (my Capstone Paper) mentoring ministry (I have had a burden for this for many years). I often questioned why, at my age, was I going back to school? Now that I have grown so much because of the seminary community and the learning process, I have an answer to the question: "God is not done with me yet!" This is not just about me; this is about what God has been preparing me for throughout the 30+ years of pastoral ministry and the seminary education. In a beautiful and wondrous way, God has been putting opportunities in front of me and the seminary was the one place that helped me (without my realizing it at first) begin putting the pieces together and see the picture more completely, and the future is wide open to possibilities. 7. I value the importance of reading scholarly theological resources as well as books that emphasize spirituality, and have continued to read books in both areas. Taking additional post graduate studies, hopefully at Anderson SOT. 8. I have begun researching for enrollment in a PhD. Program 9. I am not sure exactly. Right now, my wife is in school and I am waiting for her to finish up before I decide to go back to school for anymore education. So, nothing specific at the moment, but I might further my education in the future. 10. I am reviewing the materials for the courses that i took. I am also planning to review the suggested readings from the courses and from within the assigned textbooks. 11. Reading. During the undergrad and post graduate programs I have developed a desire to read. My challenge is often finding the next good book to read. I have begun to re-read some of my textbooks simply because the time restraints have been lifted. I use my text books as resource material for sermons and teaching. 12. I plan on reading voraciously for the rest of my life. My degree at AU-SOT has given me the desire to never stop learning. I may want to pursue and MDIV and/or MBA at some point in the future as well to continue to hone my skill-set for ministry. 13. I plan to continue coursework in biblical languages and possible pursue a doctoral degree. 14. My specific plan for a lifelong learning is to possibly work on a Doctorate in Theology. Also my wife and I have just planted a Church were we both serve as Pastors. The Lord has blessed us with a nice building and last Sunday was our first Church service where we had 62 Adults and 11 Children at our first service. 15. I am enrolled in "Light University" an online Christian counseling program by Tim Clinton to sharpen my counseling skills. I continue a realtionship with my mentor. I am planning on completing the hpurs needed and then enrolling in the DMin program at AUSOT after I save some money and complete a new church building this coming year. 16. Since graduation from the AUSOT I have been attending Fuller Theological Seminary to complete the necessary remaining requirements to apply for doctoral studies. I will be applying for the PhD program this December 17. I have not at this time formed anything specific in regards to formal education except to get it paid for! But, I still am initiating contact with the one that coached me through the mentoring process. I have thought about taking some more Bible classes and working on a thesis in order to pursue work on a Doctorate's level. The last thought is still being prayerfully considered. Since graduation I have read the following books: "The Irresistible Revololution" by Shane Claiborne, "Ignite" by Nelson Searcy, "The Next Evangelicalism" by Soong-Chan Rah, "The Holy Spirit Within Us" by Bill Konstantopoulas, and "Pastor" by William Willimon. Along with these books read I have revisited some of the books during classwork. 18. In the six months since graduation, my life has changed greatly. I retired after almost 40 years. My wife and I and my mother (age 91) moved to Nashville, TN from St. Joseph, IL in order to be closer to family. We have not yet sold our home, so that requires some of our time. I mention these facts because it helps explain why I have not really considered a plan for lifelong learning. However, being in a university community and attending a large dynamic church should give me plenty of opportunities to continue my study of theology. As a matter of fact, my new Sunday School class is studying Summary of Christian Doctrine, by Louis Berkhof. 19. Possibly considering looking at getting a second master's degree. Will continue to read, engage in conversation and attend conversations. On the question concerning specific plans for improvement in ministry knowledge and skills, 18 of the 21 graduates wrote:

5 1. Ongoing learning through reading, research and dialogue with other leaders. 2. I have started a series of books, both secular and religious that deal with leadership and mentoring. These are all geared toward a more balanced and FOCUSED approached to ministry. I am also looking at the SHAPE program as a way to continue the learning and networking necessary for ministry in the 21st century. 3. I have recently taken part in a 2-day workshop designed to improve public speaking skills. It was connected to our state's ISL (Institute for Servant Leadership). I am teaching a 4-hour session on the Work of the Holy Spirit this Friday and Saturday. 4. I have found my study habits following my seminary patterns. I mean, now I am much more intense about the process and even more so about the outcome. There were areas which I usually simply took surface information and ran with it. That is no longer the case. I must literally understand the text I preach and teach. This, to me, means a more in-depth study with an openness to the dynamic of Scripture in the relationship of the historical perspective and the contemporary church I am a part of. I want to continue my formal education as well, although I am not sure exactly what that means as yet. I only know that I have a more aggressive hunger for knowledge of God, His will, His Word, and the application of this knowledge into the daily church life. I am writing, maybe a book, what is my appreciation of the faith and folly of pastoral struggles and how to survive the ministry. It seems that everyone writes a book these days, so I am not certain where this is going. 5. Continued personal study along with conferences. 6. I am current participating in the Coaches Training Initiative sponsored by Church of God Ministries. This has been a great opportunity to put into practice many areas of my studies. 7. I will continue to expand and grow in ministry skills through similar educational experiences 8. I am going to continue to read books...and probably re-read some of the ones from your program, because I didn't read them quite as "in depth" as I probably should have :). I also am learning a lot from listening to my pastor and other pastors that I am around. I also just went to Youth Convention in Charleston...and even though the messages are for the kids...i continue to learn from the speakers I hear at these types of church trips. 9. I don't know. 10. I have applied and have been accepted to enter CPE training at BroMenn Medical Center in Bloomington, IL. I will continue my position as senior pastor and will be in the clinical setting two days each week. I plan to submit an application for further CPE training in an effort to become an accredited chaplain. 11. Lots of reading, possibly and MDIV and/or MBA. I also will actively pursue leadership training through intentional mentoring relationships and leadership training resources. 12. I continue to read widely and participate in local seminars when possible, as well as dialoging with colleagues in ministry. 13. My specific plans for improvement in Ministry are to attend conferences and workshops where I can learn from seasoned Ministers. 14. I continue to work closely with a Deacon ministry in my local church which I ordained for the purpose of assisting me in guiding the church spiritualy. We do a lot of visioning and gaol setting kind of work. This helps determine the types of reading and seminar or class training I pursue. I am also now chairing our state ministerial fellowship which includes planning and participating in conference type training. 15. I plan to continue taking courses and to become involved in both university and community education opportunities. 16. The continuation of seeking to intentionally think aboutside the box and to allow others to speak into those areas. I continue to find ministry to be a great challenge when the status quo is not being sought and being the church is. Along with reading I also have been doing lots of writing, seeking to improve my writing skills as I continue to learn from others. 17. I would like to be involved in some of the ministries of our church. This may include teaching a Sunday School class or small group. There are also a number of church related community ourtreach ministries which I would like to become involved in. 18. Mentoring relationships, asking people for honest feedback and learning from others who are in ministry. 3. Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective has not been achieved. Thirty-two of the 37 responses (86.5%) to the two questions indicate specific and measurable plans for lifelong learning and improvement in ministry knowledge and skills. Perhaps the goal of 100% is too optimistic. B. Objective 2: A random sample of parishioners and peers of graduates will evaluate graduates passion for lifelong learning and improvement in ministry knowledge and skills as a mean score of 3 or higher, on a scale of 0 to 4.

6 1. Discuss tool used to measure objective The same Survey Monkey survey referenced above included an item in which respondents were asked to rate the graduate s passion for lifelong learning and improvement in ministry knowledge and skills. 2. Discuss data results from each tool We received 138 responses to this survey. Regarding passion for lifelong learning, the average score was 3.79; on passion for improvement in ministry knowledge it was 3.77; and on passion for improvement in ministry skills it was Evaluate achievement of the objective This objective has been achieved.