When I first walked into the class I had no idea what to expect. In fact, I thought it would be no different than any other theology class that I had taken in the past. For some reason I had a feeling this theology class would be different upon hearing the music playing in the background. So far it seems as though Dr. Homan takes a more creative approach at teaching this subject. It is hard to say whether that is good or bad at this point. Blogs add an interesting element to the class allowing us to hear from every student in the class. I feel like this is a good idea, except 2,000 words puts a damper on the fun that could be derived from this experience.
As far as expectations I really don’t have many. My main expectation is to end this semester knowing more about the Bible and biblical studies than I do currently. Even just adding enlightenment to what I already know could satisfy this expectation. Another expectation which means a lot to me is the dedication a teacher must posses in order to go that extra mile and meet students half way in understanding certain things that might not be clear or understood. This is very important to me because some professors have what I call a mechanical style of teaching. Meaning, however something is presented in their lesson plan is how it is presented, understood or not understood. Often times a teacher must take another route other than those planned in order for their presentation to be clear and understood by each student. I know it seems as though I am asking a lot but it is better for at least a majority of a class to understand something rather than the majority not understand something. This is pretty much all I expect.
The reason I am taking the course is quite simple; It is a requirement for my major. Even though I am taking the course by force, I still would like to learn more about the Bible and biblical studies because it has many different segments which can provide inspiration along with other things. I personally do not read the Bible much but it has been known to provide answers to questions that no man or woman can answer depending on interpretation. In many cases, the Bible can be related to numerous current situations and events which occur and this is something I find quite interesting. Everyone, at some point and time, has read of characters in the Bible and said it reminds them of themselves.
I have gone to church every Sunday since I can remember and I must say that I still do not understand the Bible. I went to a Catholic elementary school and I still do not understand the Bible. I also attended a Catholic high school and have taken a religion class in each of my four years enrolled and I still do not fully understand the Bible. Even though I know a few familiar scriptures from the Bible, I understand some and some I do not so I feel like there is plenty of room for more biblical knowledge which I plan to gain upon attending class which leads me to my course commitments.
My philosophy is I don’t know what is going on in class if I am not there and if I don’t know what is going on how can I succeed in the class. Even being late I could miss something important so attendance and punctuality are two course commitments I know I can make. Along the same lines reading and being prepared for class is also important because if I don’t read ahead of time when I hear it for the first time in class I am already behind everybody that read and came to class prepared. The next commitment, participation, is a major one because this is the only commitment which directly effects my grade. The final three course commitments go hand and hand in my opinion. I feel as though if I come to class with a positive attitude and respect my fellow students I should not allow my phone to ring in class. Finally, if I have any respect for myself academic dishonesty is not an option because if I don’t trust my own abilities that doesn’t say much for the amount of confidence I have in myself.

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