Rotational Teaching with Flying Colors

　　In 2014, along with four other teachers from the Bible and Christian Thought divisions, I co-taught the course “The Worshipping Church.” Since this subject is inter-disciplinary by nature, it requires a teaching team consisting of expertise in various disciplines, and with equal emphasis on both theory and practice. Before the course started, we met and discussed the objectives, scope, key content, and coursework requirements of the course, so as to help students understand church worship through biblical, theological, historical and liturgical perspectives with consideration with church tradition and ministry, ethical practice, as well as cultural contexts. Each teacher took a turn to lecture on the relevant topics based on their expertise. I was mainly responsible for coordinating and monitoring the classes, as well as teaching the second half of the class. I tried to integrate the teaching from the various disciplines such as the Bible, theology, and history, and apply it in the practice of church worship ministry.

　　This team teaching experience was inspiring and I learnt a lot from it. It gave me an opportunity to deepen and integrate my understanding of the church worship ministry thoroughly. I was only starting out as a new teacher back then, and this experience made me realize the enthusiasm of the HKBTS faculty for teaching, and I found that they trusted each other with mutual support and collaboration. In addition, as all the teachers have their own strengths and experiences, students can learn from them; it widened their horizons, inspired their thinking, and promoted mutual communication and learning.

　　The team teaching approach at HKBTS is good for training a new generation of preachers and pastors. In fact, many ministries that a pastor has to handle require him to integrate the various subjects and disciplines he learned. This mode of teaching allows both students and teachers to be learning, discussing and thinking about various topics and issues from multiple perspectives and in a more comprehensive manner. It also promotes further learning by facilitating them to share with each other and exchange experiences; thus, it enriches the lessons with creativity and lively interests. This enhances both teaching and learning, bringing about more inspiration and synergy.