Welcome to a transformative exploration of the intersection between faith and academia. ‘Faith and Learning: A Practical Guide for Faculty’ is essential for Christian college educators who wish to understand and articulate the profound impacts of their faith on their professional roles. This guide provides clarity amidst the complexities of integrating faith into teaching, research, and service, a concept often seen as daunting yet deeply rewarding.

At its core, this volume seeks to demystify the integration of faith and learning, providing a well-rounded understanding that empowers educators. The authors, Allen and Badley, begin by summarizing the ongoing discourse surrounding faith and learning, establishing a solid foundation for faculty members. They present a working conception of faith integration specifically tailored for Christian college faculty, ensuring relevance and applicability.

Moreover, the book outlines the expectations that deans, provosts, and tenure-promotion committees typically hold for faculty in Christian institutions. Understanding these expectations is crucial for faculty members as they navigate their roles within educational settings. The authors introduce Ernest Boyer’s highly regarded framework, originally outlined in ‘Scholarship Reconsidered’ (1990), which serves as a vital reference point for understanding the dimensions of scholarship in relation to faith.

To provide a comprehensive approach, this guide offers a framework for assessing faith and learning integration across three critical dimensions: teaching, research, and service. Each section is meticulously crafted to help educators identify and articulate their individual approaches. The step-by-step instructions included are invaluable for documenting and describing the faculty member’s unique journey and successes in integrating faith into their academic life.

Furthermore, the book encourages both the Christian college and individual professors to embrace the vocation of teaching. It emphasizes the significance of shaping and sending students into the world, equipped with both knowledge and a strong moral compass rooted in their faith.

In conclusion, ‘Faith and Learning: A Practical Guide for Faculty’ is not merely a book; it is a call to action. It invites educators to reflect on their roles, challenge conventional boundaries, and redefine scholarship in a way that honors their Christian beliefs. This guide is essential for anyone looking to enrich their educational practice through the integration of faith.