Conferences
Introduction to Theological Action Research Day Workshop
Tuesday 12 June 2012
Heythrop College, University of London
Aims
The ARCS team at Heythrop College, University of London and OxCEPT Ripon College Cuddesdon has developed a process of reflection for church groups to support them in their work called Theological Action Research (TAR). This day workshop is for Christian practitioners who are passionate about their practice and open to new ways of learning and reflecting upon their work. Theological Action Research helps practitioners to think theologically about what they do so that practice can renew theology and theology can renew practice. It aims to equip participants with the confidence and skills to carry out TAR in their own setting. No prior experience of research is necessary. Participants will develop new insights into their work through conversation and team work. This course is offered by authors of ‘Talking about God in Practice: Practical Theology and Theological Action Research’ (SCM, 2010). For more details about the ARCS project see: http://www.heythrop.ac.uk/outreach/arcs-project
Course Leaders: Dr Jim Sweeney, Dr Clare Watkins, Catherine Duce
Feedback from participants
Thanks for putting together such an enjoyable and informative Introduction to Theological Action Day Workshop. It is a credit to the team that, although delegates came from across the Christian tradition, we were immediately at ease; which enabled insightful and fruitful conversation.
I was apprehensive about the day as I wasn't at all sure 'research' was my thing but what you all outlined so well was just the sort of creative data gathering, good listening and conversational approach that I could both understand and feel drawn to. I learned a lot and found the day really encouraging.
I found the day to be well organised and the method of delivery interspersed with interactive sessions and regular breaks was easy to stay with.
| Programme |
|
| 10.00 | Registration and coffee |
| 10.30 | Welcome and course introduction |
| 10.45 | Session 1: An overview of Theological Action Research [TAR] – what is it and illustrations from experience |
| 11.45 | Tea |
| 12.00 | Session 2: TAR – Issues in setting up, research methods & exploration of participants’ contexts |
| 1.00 | Lunch |
| 1.45 | Session 3: TAR – Theological readings of practice |
| 3.15 | Tea |
| 3.30 | Session 4: TAR – What kinds of outcome? |
| Time for sketching your project | |
| Q&A session | |
| Future ARCS support | |
| 4.30 | End and Departure |
Bookings
Please download and complete a booking form (.doc) and send it with your cheque to:
Catherine Duce, ARCS Fieldworker, Heythrop College, University of London, Kensington Square, London, W8 5HN by 25th May 2012
or e-mail to Catherine.Duce@heythropcollege.ac.uk
The programme for the day can be downloaded here (.doc)
Costs
£45 Cheques payable to ‘Heythrop College’
Travel
Travel information on getting to the College can be found here.
Registration
Registration opens from 10.00am for 10.30am start, departure 4.30pm
Prior reading
We recommend that participants read ‘Talking about God in Practice: Practical Theology and Theological Action Research’ prior to the course, but this is not essential (Cameron et al, SCM 2010).
