The second edition of Qualitative Research responds to the growing need in Doctor of Ministry programs for a textbook that guides students in Participatory Action Research, prospectus, and dissertation that reflect the recent trends in the discipline of practical theology.
The Standards of Accreditation for the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools states, “The Doctor of Ministry is an advanced, professionally oriented degree that prepares people more deeply for religious leadership in congregations and other settings.” Standard 5.3 states, “The Doctor of Ministry degree has clearly articulated student learning outcomes that are consistent with the school’s mission and resources and address the following four (a) advanced theological integration that helps graduates effectively engage their cultural context with theological acumen and critical thinking; (b) in-depth contextual competency that gives graduates the ability to identify, frame, and respond to crucial ministry issues; (c) leadership capacity that equips graduates to enhance their effectiveness as ministry leaders in their chosen settings; and (d) personal and spiritual maturity that enables graduates to reinvigorate and deepen their vocational calling.” In accordance with the standards, Qualitative Research guides students through appropriate research methods to satisfy the objectives of the degree in order to enhance ministerial leadership for the transformation of communities of practice.
Excellent methodological manual for crafting a qualitative Doctor of Ministry dissertation projects! This is a significant update from the first edition, primarily in the inclusion of an extended introduction that asks why DMin dissertations should be considered significant theological research.
Additional improvements include a greater coverage of other research methodologies, especially those from minority and underrepresented voices, brought in conversation with Sensing's ever evolving understanding of research in the practical theology context.
However, a reoccurring concern is that the bulk of dissertation examples included are exclusively from Sensing's own teaching context, which is limited in denominational scope (Churches of Christ) and gender (male), as well as ethnicity (Caucasian).
That being said, the research consulted and the methodological model crafted are exemplary. This remains the finest application of qualitative methodology to Doctor of Ministry research.