Providing Rockbridge Seminary students with learning tips, ministry resources, and course upgrade news
Leading up to the launch of the new academic programs in 2007, seminary leadership took a close look at the Capstone Course; in particular, the portfolio requirements. We felt like there was room for some major tweaking. The result was a more focused approach to portfolio building. Instead of demonstrating competency in 35 areas, students in the newer degrees demonstrate development in five competencies the student selects. Demonstrating competency and demonstrating development in a competency are very different. To demonstrate a competency I already have, all I need is someone to verify that they have seen me demonstrate that competency. To demonstrate development in a competency, I need to show that I went from Point A to Point B in a ministry skill.
Most of the students hitting the Capstone Course now are finishing up the older academic programs (MML39 and DML39). However, the first student in one of the newer academic programs started Capstone in the October 2008 Term. So now we have students entering Capstone Courses representing both old and new academic programs.
At the same time, we’re seeing some confusion. Students are building expectations about the Capstone Course based on conversations with other students who are in different academic programs.
So we’re trying to get the word out – make sure you’re familiar with the expectations of YOUR academic program. Getting that wrong could set you back months.
Several things I recommend. First, read the Portfolio information inserted into Unit 8 of every course. Second, if you have questions, PLEASE ask. That’s why your support team exists – to help you if you need assistance.
We’re also adding (over the next few terms) the following Portfolio-related Statement to every syllabus:
Portfolio Development
In the Capstone Course (your final course named “Practicing the Focused Life”), you will be expected to upload ministry portfolio documents. For most academic programs, these documents will come from your courses AND from projects you design that are separate from your courses. Depending on your academic program, project work could take up to three months prior to your enrollment in the Capstone Course. To review the portfolio requirements for your academic program, download the documents provided in Unit 8 of your course. When you discuss the Capstone Course with fellow students, remember that portfolio requirements are different among the academic programs.
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