Mentor's Manual

114 For the Nex t Generat i on: The Urban Mi n i s t r y I ns t i tute ’ s Mentor Manua l

The Ministry Project Learning that is not experienced and shared often times is lost, and that, very quickly. All TUMI course offerings require our students to connect their learning to life in practical ways, and to discover ways in which to communicate that learning creatively, concisely, and effectively in the various contexts of life where they live, work, and minister. We refer to this opportunity to share and communicate the truth as the student’s Ministry Project. 1. General Description: A Ministry Project is an assignment that requires students to integrate some key element of the course learning by:

a. Determining a personal ministry situation in which they can use the course knowledge.

b. Preparing to use that knowledge and submitting that preparation to the Mentor for evaluation and suggestions.

c. Using their learning in ministry and reporting on the learning that results from the experience to their class and/or instructor. 2. Predefined, or not? In some cases, the nature of the ministry project is predefined in the curriculum. In other cases there is wide latitude given for the student to shape and define the application. Do not feel limited or bound to the Ministry Project designated in any given module or course . As Mentor, you may allow your students great freedom in discerning how and in what context they will share with others the insights gained in their learning this session. Generally speaking, the project should involve an activity that is a normal part of the student’s ministry responsibility but should seek to increase their competency by using knowledge, techniques, or principles learned in the course. In every case, the focus is on students consciously using what they have learned to affect the way in which they minister. Some examples are:

Handling Projects and Student Assignments

a. Preaching a sermon or teaching a lesson which is informed by course learning.