Study Guide for Course Preparation and Research Techniques

Overview of the Course Preparation Steps

  • Discussion of Previous Videos: Covered foundational aspects including:
    • How to get started on the assignment.
    • Understanding presuppositions.
    • Finding and following the rubric for writing.
    • Recognizing the major "don'ts" that are important to adhere to.

Bible Book Selection

  • Importance of Choosing a Biblical Book:
    • Students must select one of the 66 books of the biblical canon for their paper.
  • Reading Requirements:
    • Students must read their chosen book in its entirety.
    • The reading plan outlined does not require reading the whole Bible, focusing on selected texts.
  • Instructor's Choice:
    • The instructor has chosen to write on the book of Haggai, an uncommon choice among students, stating the intent to avoid overlap in topics.
  • Availability of Other Books:
    • Students can choose any biblical book except for Haggai.

Finding Academic Resources

  • Initial Resource Search Advice:
    • Avoid Starting with Google:
    • Google provides a vast amount of information but lacks a reliable method to determine if the sources are peer-reviewed or academically credible.
    • Common platforms like Wikipedia, Bible Gateway, and others are deemed insufficiently vetted for academic standards.
  • Caution Against Non-Academic Resources:
    • Strongly advised against using sources such as:
    • Wikipedia: Not considered accurate or trustworthy for academic purposes.
    • Other platforms (Bible Study Tools, Overview Bible): Lack academic rigor.
  • Recommended Resource:
    • The Bible Project is an exception due to its rigorous vetting process under which the instructor has contributed content.

Using the Library for Research

  • Library Access Steps:

    • Access the Annie Gabriel Library through calbaptist.edu or via CBU ops.
    • Locate the library tab on the website for research resources.

  • One Search Functionality:

    • Begin research by using the library's One Search feature to look for resources related to Haggai.
    • Initial Search Outcomes:
    • Example search yielded 2,804 results—indicating a need to narrow the search.

  • Limiting Search Parameters:

    • Use the filters to narrow down results by location to “online,” reducing to 27 digital resources.

Recommended Academic Resources

  • Tyndale Commentary Series:
    • Covers various Old and New Testament books.
    • Features readability and extensive relevant information, making it suitable for research.
    • Access options include PDF full text for downloading and online reading.
  • International Commentary Series:
    • Notable versions include the New International Commentary series for both Old and New Testaments.
    • Similar access options as the Tyndale series.

Using Online Tools and Functions

  • Citation Tools:
    • Many academic resources provide pre-made citations, such as APA format, suitable for bibliographic references.
    • Easy integration of citation into documents helps streamline the writing process.
  • Folder Functionality:
    • Articles and resources collected in a personal folder within the library system for organization.
  • Resource Databases:
    • Recommended database for theology research is the ATLA database, which provides access to shorter academic works.

Advanced Search Techniques

  • Searching for Specific Books and Articles:
    • In the ATLA database, interface allows users to search by specific biblical books and adjust for peer-reviewed articles.
    • Example: Searching Haggai yields 62 entries, which can then be filtered for full-text and peer-reviewed articles.

Optimizing Bibliography and Formatting

  • Critical Assignment Overview:
    • Assignments must be submitted as Word documents (.doc or .docx).
    • The use of provided templates is required; deviations will result in non-grading.
  • Template Instructions:
    • Document structure should follow guidelines:
    • Title: CST 100 Critical Assignment, including your name and book title.
    • Formatting: Times New Roman, 12 pt font, one-inch margins, double-spaced.
    • Work should be 6-10 pages long, with a properly formatted bibliography.
  • Bibliography Formatting:
    • Inclusions must be arranged in alphabetical order and appropriately formatted according to the required style.
    • Adjusting entries to a hanging indent format for bibliography is essential.

Preparation for Writing the Paper

  • After collecting and organizing resources, students should prepare to write the introductory section of their paper, focusing on understanding issues related to Haggai to inform their discussion.