Intentional Integration of Faith and Learning: Historical Necessity and Indirect Approaches

David Farbishel, Grand Canyon University | Robert Staples, Grand Canyon University | Jennifer Pellish, Grand Canyon University 

Abstract

Effectively integrating faith into a Christian university classroom presents a difficulty for many instructors. Doing so in a manner that is natural and authentic for the course being studied is even more of a challenge. This article first presents an historical background to provide a perspective on the issue and to illustrate the need to be intentional. Second, it introduces the indirect approach championed by Kierkegaard and often used by Jesus through his use of parables. Last, the article provides examples to show some ways the indirect approach may be used to challenge students to think for themselves and discover and apply concepts they perhaps have never thought of before.

Keywords: integration of faith, intentional integration, indirect teaching, Kierkegaard, parables