Christian Study Groups for the Adult Crowd

COURSE PROJECT: ETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCH

CHRISTIAN STUDYfor theGROUPS Adult Crowd

GROUP DEEDENZO • IAN DEJESUS • CHERYL EDENFIELD • BRITTANY STROZZO

IDUS 711: METHODS OF CONTEXTUAL RESEARCH • PROFESSOR: GISELLE RAHN • FALL 2014 QUARTER / NOV. 16, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS Research

Project Overview & Opportunity Statement....... 4 Research Questions & Scope.................................. 5 Value Proposition & Methodology........................ 6 Project Matrix............................................................ 7-8 Timeline..................................................................... 9

Fieldwork Observation Locations............................................. 11 Research Encounters & Observations................... 12 Ethnographic Interviews......................................... 13 Interview Participants.............................................. 14 Notetaking................................................................. 15 Highlights.................................................................. 16 Forms.......................................................................... 17 Questionnaire........................................................... 18 Surroundings............................................................ 19 Working Wall............................................................ 20-22

Analysis Documents Models........................................................................ 24-30 Affinity Diagram....................................................... 31

Synthesis Documents Insight Reports......................................................... 33-42 Opportunity Map..................................................... 43

Appendix Interview Questions................................................. 45 Process........................................................................ 46 About Team DeEdenZo........................................... 47 Bibliography.............................................................. 48

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RESEARCH

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PROJECT OVERVIEW The Bible is considered the primary foundation for the Christian faith. The book starts with the creation of the universe and closes with the end of it. In between are stories rich with struggle, hope, joy, pain and loss. Throughout all of them is the thread of the relationship between God and humanity. Yet, not everyone has the same interpretation of the writings found within. Differences and similarities exist on both an institutional level (denominations) and on a personal level (individual members and non-believers).

By examining these two levels the researchers will discover new insights into the cultural implications of religion and religious study.

OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT The research goal is to gain a rich and complex understanding of how Christians come to learn and understand the Bible. We will use qualitative research methods to study the adult Christian study group, including the learning process, participant relationships, roles, activities and practices (both in public and private settings). In addition, we aim to learn what motivates these Christians to study the Bible and how it enriches, and even challenges, their beliefs. The opportunities are twofold: • For existing Christians, study of these facets could lead to the reinforcement of increased participation, formation of new groups or expansion of existing groups, more content for study, and more contributing members that would enhance the Christian study group experience. • For non-Christians, it provides an exploration into the mindset of a Christian beyond a mere superficial knowledge of the Christian faith.

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RESEARCH QUESTIONS 1. Why do Christians attend study groups?

2. How are study groups structured (including physical, social, pedagogical and process structures)?

3. How does Bible study affect a participant’s understanding of the Bible?

4. How does personal study fit into the public study?

5. What other things do participants do, or use, on their own to gain a better understanding of the Bible?

6. How do Bible study groups affect the relationships between members of the group as well as church members outside of the group?

SCOPE This study will focus on the activities and context, both public and private, of adult Christians who attend religious study groups at Cleveland, Ohio; Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Clearwater, Florida; and Statesboro, Georgia.

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VALUE PROPOSITION For Christians and non-Christians who want to learn how members of the Christian community develop their perception of the Bible, our study will examine activities Christians perform to deepen their understanding of the Bible.

We do this by applying ethnographic research methods and additional human-centered design processes to study adult Christian study groups.

Unlike a mere overview of Christianity from a high level, institutional perspective, our study will take a human-centered perspective, examining Christians and their religious study across various denominations.

METHODOLOGY Our research will be conducted using a variety of qualitative methods. These methods include the following: • Interviews with study group attendees as well as study group leaders (if one exists for the study group). These interviews will help us gain a rich understanding of the people in our study.

• Field observations of the environments in which study groups conduct their activities.

This will likely be churches, but will include areas outside of church if necessary. These observations will help us to understand the context in which these activities take place.

They will also serve as a way of confirming and clarifying the behavior that people describe during the interviews.

• Questionnaire passed out to members of a study group that contains open-ended questions relevant to our study. This will enable us to capture information that can’t be done via interviews (due to time constraints etc.).

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PROJECT MATRIX What do I need to know?

Why do I need to know this?

What kind of Where can I find data will answer the data? this question?

What type of research methods will I use?

Who do I contact for access?

Timeline

Research Question 1

Why do Christian attend study groups?

Understanding motivation gets to the root of a problem.

Verbal feedback from study group attendees (via interviewing)

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Interviews, Questionnaire

Pastor, Study Group Leader/ Participants

Minimum of 2 personal interviews

by Sunday, Oct. 26; if needed and the opportunity presents itself, deploy survey

by Sunday, Nov. 2 to include responses in insight report due Sunday, Nov. 9

Research Question 2

How does Bible study affect their understanding of the Bible?

The meaning derived from the Biblical text is likely to shape a Christian’s faith. Hence, how study groups affect this meaning is important.

Verbal feedback from study group attendees (via interviewing)

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Interviews

Study Group Participants

(2) Initial interviews

by Sunday, Oct. 26; one more interview by Sunday, Nov. 2

Research Question 3

How are study groups structured (including physical, social, pedagogical and process structures)

Knowledge of context is critical to understanding the entire problem

Photographs/ sketches showing details of environment, artifacts related to course curriculum, verbal feedback from group participants and leaders

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Observation, Interviews

Church Leader, Church Staff, or Study Group Leader, Study Group Participants

Observations ongoing every week through opportunity mapping and models (NLT Thursday, Nov. 9); (2) Initial interviews by Sunday, Oct. 26; one more interview by Sunday, Nov. 2

Research Question 4

We suspect that the two are tightly interrelated and cannot be viewed in isolation.

We suspect that the two are tightly interrelated and cannot be viewed in isolation.

Verbal feedback from study group attendees (via interviewing)

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Interviewing, Questionnaire

Study Group Participants

(2) Initial interviews

by Sunday, Oct. 26; one more interview

by Sunday, Nov. 2; journal/photo diary due no later than Thursday, Nov. 6 to include in insight report

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PROJECT MATRIX (CONT...)

What kind of Where can I find data will answer the data? this question?

What type of research methods will I use?

Who do I contact for access?

What do I need to know?

Why do I need to know this?

Research Question 5

What other things do participants do, or use, on their own to gain a better understanding of the Bible?

We don’t want to artificially narrow the study to the Bible

Verbal feedback from study group attendees (via interviewing)

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Interviews, Survey, Artifact Analysis

Study Group Participants, Facilitators

Initial fieldwork (fly on the wall and shadowing data) due in time for working wall (which is due Sunday, Oct. 19). Minimum of 2 personal interviews along with ongoing immersive research

by Sunday, October 26.

Process data, and included at least one more personal interview, by Sunday, November 2 (insight report due Sunday, November 9).

Models draft due Sunday, November 2 and final due Sunday, November 16. Opportunity map due Thursday, November 13.

Final report: ResearchAnalysis-Synthesis (RAS) Report due Sunday, November 16.

Research Question 6

How do Bible study groups affect the relationships between members of the group as well as church members outside of the group?

A group is inherently social.

Understanding the effects that participants have on each other is critical to gaining a holistic understanding of the culture.

Verbal feedback from study group attendees (via interviewing)

Church, Bible Study, Sunday School

Interviews

Study Group Participants, Church Leaders

(2) Initial interviews by Sunday, Oct. 26; one more interview by Sunday, Nov. 2

Timeline

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TIMELINE OCTOBER SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 Initial field observation and minimum of one interview (per team member) completed.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 Minimum of two personal interviews and continued field observation completed.

Third interview completed.

NOVEMBER SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Synthesis models draft due.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Insight report due.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Opportunity Map due.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Final synthesis models due.

Final report: Research-AnalysisSynthesis (RAS) Report.

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FIELDWORK

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Cleveland, OH

Pittsburgh, PA

Statesboro, GA

The methods we used to collect data produced numerous findings among adult Christians who attend religious study groups in Clearwater, Florida, Statesboro, Georgia; Cleveland, Ohio; Fort Sill, Oklahoma; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Clearwater, FL

Fort Sill, OK

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RESEARCH ENCOUNTERS Our research encounters and protocols for observations included shadowing, fly-on-the-wall and participatory techniques. For shadowing and participatory observations, we informed participants of our role as researcher. Our goals were to document every aspect of the Study Group as possible within the time-frame of the meeting. When possible, we asked shadowed participants questions about activities before, during and after Study Group meetings. Otherwise, we requested permission for a one-on-one interview with participants.

Study group attendees review class materials.

OBSERVATIONS Fly-on-the-wall worked to get a high level view of observations of group activity and social interactions (the who, what, where, and when). It gave us first impressions, but the details weren’t necessarily abstract.

Shadowing, participatory observations, and personal interviews helped us get a more holistic understanding by adding the “why” and “how” perspectives. The combination of techniques allowed us to transcend from generalities to personal points-of-view, wants, needs, and expectations of members.

For each technique we used to observe, we took field notes to indicate the date, time and location. In addition, description of the location, environment, and people were given in detail including physical layout - with sketches, photos or written description. The tone of the environment was captured, including the relationships between student attendees and teacher/facilitator, and with each other.

The following pages represent reports of conducted observations and their various methods.

Grace Baptist Church - Pittsburgh, PA

Fort Sill Catholic Community - Fort Sill, OK

Grace Community Church - Statesboro, GA

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ETHNOGRAPHIC INTERVIEWS The interview techniques we used varied from member to member. We made sure that each of us were on the same page about the introduction to the interview, our project and request for consent form. We found that we needed to have a clear explanation of the research project to make sure the participant understands exactly how their information will be used. We made sure to avoid leading questions that were asked during practice. We identified methods to better transition between questions. We realized that participants

can start telling stories that are interesting, but ultimately not relevant to the research study. When this happened, we steered participants back on topic. Questions with “yes” or “no” only questions were avoided. Overall, each of us were able to make our semi-structured interviews conversational with each interview participant. This helped to put the participant at ease. The informal feel of the conversation also helped participants freely share without fear of giving a wrong answer, because there were no wrong answers.

Photographs of several interview participants.

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INTERVIEW PARTICIPANTS The interview participants ranged from 30 - 75 years of age and all are members of Christian-based study groups. The interviewees range from employees to retired including (but not limited to): military, church employees, church leaders/teachers, pastors, business owners, stay at home parents, married couples, families, senior citizens, and more.

INTERVIEWEE PROFILES • 64 year old male who is a retired government worker and former Navy Chief.

• 27 year old male who works as an Engineer. Married with two young children.

• 30 something stay-at-home mom with two children ages seven and five. Prior to starting a family, she studied English in college and was an editor.

• 38 year old male who works as a graphic designer.

• 30 year old female college student (full-time) at Cameron University. She is studying Early Childhood Education.

• 75 year old male paper-route retiree who lives with his wife.

Married for over 50 years.

• 50 something year old male who works as a discipleship at Grace Community Church and is a study group leader.

• 32 year old married female. Works as a nurse and recently graduated with a Masters in Chemistry.

• Older male (around 50 yrs of age) who works as an Engineer.

Married with two adult children.

• 65 year old female that runs a small-business with her husband.

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NOTETAKING FIELD GUIDES

As a group during field observations, we kept a running journal of every event, discussion, room setup, and much more in order to make connections that would later form our understanding and reasoning behind why individuals in church attend study groups.

Research notes.

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HIGHLIGHTS FIELD GUIDE

Observation notes.

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FORMS FIELD GUIDE

Interviewing notes.

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QUESTIONNAIRE FIELD GUIDE

Written questionnaire response.

Four new graduates from Life in the Spirit Seminar, the other 16 attended this seminar as a refresher.

• What did you talk about in your study group?

FOUR QUESTIONS ASKED:

• Did you learn something today?

• How do you feel about what was discussed today?

• Did you do anything else this week, other than attending a study group, that helped your understanding of the Bible?

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SURROUNDINGS

These pictures were taken during the field visits of the Study Groups. These exemplify the diverse range of environment and activities we encountered.

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WORKING WALL Each group member separately created their Working Wall. These Working Walls contained key observations discovered during field visits. Observations were labeled on stickies and arranged using a variety of techniques.

Eventually, these were affinity clustered to identify core themes.

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WORKING WALL

Group Working Wall

Once the key themes and sub-themes were individually identified, each team member combined them into a virtual whiteboard. This enabled use to work collaboratively despite our remote locations.

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ANALYSIS DOCUMENTS 22

MODELS

DENOTING THE PHYSICAL & PERCEIVED ENVIRONMENT

This model denotes the physical and perceived environment. Within the Study Group, they are able to express themselves on a more personal level without fear of judgment. This ‘perceived’ environment creates an atmosphere of understanding, built on elements of trust, life experience and disposition towards the Bible and others. Ultimately, this allows for engaging discussion and learning. There is also the idea of a strong bond, or community forming, that fulfills spiritual and personal nourishment through encouragement and faith sharing.

“What surprises me most about the class is the openness of people.”

–Anonymous

OS ITI

DISCUSSION and LEARNING

ON

LIFE EXPERIENCES

T US TR

COMMUNITY and FAITH SHARING

“Nobody’s perfect, everyone has done something in the past so nobody is critical of each other.”

–Anonymous

DI SP

“It’s not like going to class, it’s fun. People want to be here with each other. They’re here because of each other.” –Anonymous

SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT

ENCOURAGEMENT and DEPENDENCE ON GROUP FAITH

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MODELS NEW PERSPECTIVES

Many Study Group members we interviewed expressed the value of hearing other people’s perspectives of the writings within the Bible.

These perspectives were influenced by a person’s background. Discussions allowed for a cross-pollination of ideas and perspectives.

Each member has a different background based on: • • • • •

Life Experiences Life Choices Biblical Knowledge Secular Knowledge Disposition

This background shapes personal perspective of the

Shares personal perspectives with other Study Group members

t

s

rspectives in an

ope

na

nd

Mem

bers share an

l environment enta gm jud

dd isc us

pe ing y r a

nno

ir v he

Which, in turn, feeds back into the member’s background and perspective.

Bible

Study Group Member

This results in the member’s ...

• • • •

Validation of existing perspective Rethinking of existing perspective Encouragement New knowledge

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MODELS

DICHOTOMY BETWEEN WORSHIP SERVICE AND STUDY GROUPS We found there is a dichotomy between the nature of the Worship Service (where the church leader speaks to the congregation) and that of the Study Group. This dichotomy manifested among various facets.

Facet Unlike the Worship Service, Study Groups allow open discussions among attendees.

Communication

Study Group members feel they get more in-depth understanding of the Bible in the class.

Lesson taught

While Worship Service wasn’t described as “boring,” the nature of the Study Group (e.g. interaction) was perceived as more fun.

Worship Service Monologue

Study Group Dialogue

“In class, the teacher facilitates discussion.”

Study Group attendee

Overview

Deeper dive

“Class is a good way to further my knowledge.”

Study Group attendee

Tone

More earnest

More fun

Unlike the Worship Service, Study Groups allow more opportunity for socializing, which builds closer relationships among those members.

Socialization

Worship

Relationship building

The primary audience activity during the Service is listening. Conversely, Study Groups allow members to ask questions and express opinions.

Audience activity

Listening

Self-expression and questioning

Worship Service topics are chosen by the church leader, but Study Group topics can often be informed by attendees.

Subject matter

Determined by Pastor

Group input

“Class is ‘informal’ learning.”

Study Group attendee

“Class is like a family.”

Study Group attendee

“I’m not sure I agree with you.”

Study Group attendee

“I might base the next class on a question that came up in a previous class.”

Study Group teacher

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MODELS

CLOSER TO GOD

SEQUENCE MODEL

Denotes the activities leading up to member goals. Starting from the bottom going up, the base of the Study Group is the Christian church and faith. Then as one reads the steps going up, the most important activity happens closer to the stop. Fellowship is also a base to begin with, but is not as important as spiritual growth leading the Study Group members closer to God. .

“Most people attend (study group) to be fed spiritually.

It’s amazing to find out how similar we are and to find it out when we study together.”

–Anonymous

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

LEARNING OR KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER

FAITH SHARING

FELLOWSHIP

Christian CHURCH/FAITH

Members’ ultimate goal is to strengthen their faith and relationship with God.

Members are seeking a deeper understanding of their faith through scripture, discussion, fellowship and faith sharing.

Members have different perspectives and communicate personal experiences to relate with one another and the study subject. (activity)

Members have common beliefs and wish to learn and share with others of the same background. (expectations)

Members are interested in socializing, meeting new people and enjoying the company of others with the same beliefs. (expectations)

Members of Christian Study Groups belong to a particular Christian Church or Faith.

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MODELS CULTURAL MODEL

Denotes the multi-faceted views and interactions between members of the culture, the environment and the media they used to study the Bible and their faith. This cultural model distills the key elements quickly but maintains a level of detail and mechanics that is supportive of the greater story.

ACTIVITIES

ENVIRONMENT

INTERACTION

OBJECTS

USERS

DISCUSSION

COMMUNITY

DIALOGUE

BIBLE

DIVERSITY

SPIRITUAL

OPEN

PERSONAL

BOOKS

BACKGROUND

SHARING BELIEFS

COMFORT

ENCOURAGING

MUSIC

AGE

PRAYER

FELLOWSHIP

SOCIAL

VISUAL MEDIA

STATUS

Members are interested in socializing, meeting new people and enjoying the company of others with the same beliefs.

TXFR KNOWLEDGE

SOCIAL MEDIA

EDUCATION

Members communicate personal experiences to relate with one another and the study subject.

Materials used as extensions of learning and spiritual enrichment – whether books or other media – all tie back to scripture and the teachings of the Bible in one way or another.

ETHNICITY

Members have common beliefs and wish to learn and share with others of the same background.

“There is a social aspect of sharing beliefs and moral systems.”

–Anonymous

“I think everyone’s open, welcoming, and makes you feel you belong. I really enjoy the fellowship with other women.”

–Anonymous

“We also learn how to talk about our faith, and how it fits in our lives, from others in the group.”

–Anonymous

“This particular study isn’t particularly Bible led. The book we’re reading encourages more active prayer and evangelical life.”

–Anonymous

Members have different perspectives and communicate personal experiences.

“We go through the words of the scripture and apply it to our own experiences in life.” –Anonymous

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MODELS VENN DIAGRAM

Denotes how God is the center of Christian study, no matter what medium is used to teach. This diagram focuses on how community, discussion, and the non-judgemental nature of study groups, where God is the center ideal of the education and the various sub-components of each concept.

GROUP

SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT

LEADERSHIP

SERMONS/TEACHINGS

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

STRENGTH FROM GROUP

COMMUNICATION

MEET NEW PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR INTERESTS (CHRISTIAN BOND)

COMMUNITY

QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

OUTREACH

REFLECTION

FAITH SHARING

TOPIC CHOICES

EVANGELIZING

SOCIALIZATION SUPPORTING ELEMENTS

GOD NOT JUDGMENTAL

PRAYER

DISCUSSION

PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE STUDY TOGETHER INVOLVE OTHERS SECURITY SHARING DEPENDENCE ON GROUP ENCOURAGEMENT OPEN TOPICS

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MODELS

Denotes that faith sharing is the center of all study groups and the various aspects that make up how the Christian faith is shared throughout the church, the group, and the outside community. This is based on the understanding that the study groups create a strong unit of support.

MIND MAP DIAGRAM

VARIOUS OUTLOOKS

STRENGTH

PERSPECTIVE TOPIC CHOICE

PERSONAL

TRUST

OUTREACH

Q&A

COMMUNITY

PUBLIC

SUPPORT

ENCOURAGEMENT

FAITH SHARING

CONTROVERSY

COMMUNICATION

DISCUSSION

NO BOUNDARIES

BIBLE

CLOSER TO GOD

UNDERSTANDING

EDUCATION THEOLOGICAL IDEALS

GROUPS LEADER

EVANGELIZE

NO JUDGEMENT MEET NEW PEOPLE SOCIALIZE INVOLVE OTHERS

KNOWLEDGE 29

AFFINITY DIAGRAM Activities Food before meeting

Study Setting Living room

Communication Learning knowledge transfer

Prayer

Classroom at church

Discussion

Auditorium

Bible Reading

Social environment

Introduction of new members

Trusting

Empathy

Brainstorm community aid activities

Security

Support from one another

Diverse (age, ethnicity, etc.)

Encouragement

Sharing

Nonjudgmental

Unite others with God in all walks of life

Fellowship

Conductive to comfort

Open communication

Educational

Reflection

Exchange life experiences Build relationships

Materials

People

Listening to others

Bible

Dialogue

Religious books

Teacher (leader/ faciliator)

Question & Answer

Related book topics

Reflect/ Respond

Sharing Perspective

Discussion Teacher support

Pastor

Notebooks Devotionals Media Furniture

Church committee member Church member w/ leadership skills Group members (attendees)

Listening to others

Topic choices Praise/worship /evangelize Strengthen each others bond with God

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SYNTHESIS DOCUMENTS

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SAFE SPACE INSIGHT

The environment of the Study Group, whether it is held inside or outside the church building, creates an atmosphere that implicitly allows more open discussion of varying perspectives, and even controversial topics, without fear of judgment from peers.

Church members share a common bond by nature of attending the same church. However, among Study Group members within that same church, it seems that they are able to express themselves on a more personal level without fear of judgment. Even typically controversial topics (e.g.

Creationism and Evolution, alcohol), that may not be discussed as regularly among church members, are discussed with dissenting views. In effect, the study group environments are both physical and perceived.

In the physical, events typically happen in the church fellowship hall or a classroom. Sometimes, study group meetings are more informal and members meet in someone’s home.

Both are meant to be very relaxed atmospheres where people feel as if they are with “family.”

The perceived environment describes the culture conducive to sharing and learning by encouraging understanding, support, community and, most importantly, restraint from judgment. Open communication allows members to feel free to share personal stories without fear of being judged. They receive encouragement from others to share their beliefs.

While they listen and learn, they also learn how to talk about their own faith and beliefs. Sometimes discussions can become “elevated,” but never to the point where it becomes argumentative. This makes people more willing to communicate and less likely to feel on the spot or make people want to be reclusive.

 OPPORTUNITY • To make all church members feel as though we can express ourselves openly, sharing our life experiences and thoughts, without fear of judgment and have the security of the group for advice and support.

• Expand our shared sense of community to the congregation and the community-at-large.

“I attend because I like to get to know other people in the church other. They’re here because of each other.”

- anonymous

“Most people attend (study group) to be fed spiritually.

It’s amazing to find out how similar we are and to find it out when we study together.”

- anonymous 32

HOW MIGHT WE....

• Foster the culture of understanding, similar to that found in the Study Group, but on a larger scale?

• Encourage more people to attend the Study Group, which will in effect, expand the culture to a larger audience?

“I think everyone is open, welcoming, and makes you feel you belong.”

- anonymous

• Provide additional outlets other than the Study Group yet have the similar benefits?

• Find new environments for the congregation to participate in spiritually enriching activity?

• Remove “perceived” boundaries so that others who do not belong to the group feel invited to attend?

• Explain why study groups are being held in people’s homes instead of being in the church?

“Nobody’s perfect. We’ve all done things in the past.”

- anonymous

IDEAS • Occasionally hold Study Group at “relaxed” locations that promote an open and comfortable environment (e.g. our homes).

• Feature member-submitted, short biographies of church members in the church bulletin (or website), with particular focus on how their lives have been changed for the positive due to a closer relationship with God. • Give a sample presentation to the church, which includes a “live debate/ discussion” among current Study Group members so that others can see for themselves the value in having rich, spiritually nourishing, discussions.

Food and friendship before guest speaker and discussion.

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INTERACTING WITH OTHERS INSIGHT

The interactive nature of the Bible Study Group, compared to the worship service, enables group members to gain a more comprehensive knowledge of the Bible.

The worship service is a monologue given by the religious leader of the church. While he may go in-depth of a particular subject, with the benefit of an expert’s point-of-view, the subject is of his choosing. In addition, during the service, there isn’t an opportunity for the audience of church members to ask questions that may bring more clarity to what is being expounded.

Conversely, Study Groups are more of a dialogue between the teacher and the members, and among the members themselves. Communication is open, personal and relatable. Interactions are social, educational and spiritual in nature. Furthermore, the topic chosen by the teacher at the Study Group can be influenced, or directly chosen, by members of the Study Group. This combination of “crowd-sourcing” and open dialogue allows depth of study into topics that they have questions about.

Study Groups can vary in size and level of activity among attendees. They often (but not always) consist of a

leader, who serves as a teacher and/or facilitator, and the group members. The leaders of the Study Group can be the pastor, church committee member, or a church member. Each are identified by leadership qualities and the ability to maintain a routine schedule.

Members attend the Study Group to get more interpersonal discussion outside of weekly worship service.

Group activities include reading (leading up to and during the meeting), prayer, reflection and a social activity.

Typically, there is an open discussion where questions are asked based on topics, answered by attendees, and the dialogue is kept as open as possible aside from the topic at hand. The leader provides support to make sure the discussions remain “on topic” and keep the momentum from dying out.

Ultimately, members who participate are seeking a deeper understanding of their faith through scripture, discussion, fellowship and faith sharing.

 OPPORTUNITY • To combine the benefits of “expertguided” worship service with the interactive nature of the Study Group.

• Expand the interaction to people who don’t attend the Study Group (or even the church itself).

• Create more social and spiritual activity that makes learning fun.

Study Group attendees socializing after class has ended.

“to learn, to gain insight into people, to study the Bible, to socialize” - anonymous 34

HOW MIGHT WE....

• Provide church members a formal channel to express followup questions derived from the worship service?

“I wasn’t getting anything out of mass. I needed something on a more individual level.”

• Provide a way for the worship service topic to be more directly influenced by members of the church?

- anonymous

• Provide more interactive elements to the worship service without being disruptive?

• Explain to our congregation that being a part of the study group is not like going to a lecture or classroom, but something fun in which attendees contribute?

IDEAS • Hold ten minute Q-and-A sessions with our church leader at the end of the worship service.

• Promote attendance with one-sheet weekly newsletters that report highlights and quotes from Study Group discussions. Include a way for congregation to submit new topics which will be scheduled and announced in the newsletter.

• Leverage social media to advertise Study Group activities and encourage “virtual” discussions among group members.

• “Build-A-Class” days in which church members can start new study groups with varying ages, topics and time frames.

Making smores and bonding before study group discussion at group members home.

“nice to be able to discuss openly” - anonymous

“more sharing with teacher support” -anonymous 35

FELLOWSHIP INSIGHT

Attendees of a Bible Study Group develop closer relationships with each other than with other members of the church. Interestingly, many of them do not socialize outside of the church.

Members meet new people and connect through common interest. Of the people interviewed, many described the tone of class with words like “informal,” “fun,” and “family.” The last one is particularly appropriate. The group convenes to discuss a deeply personal subject - spirituality. In addition, they share personal issues among each other, as exemplified by the requests for prayer (for help with a particular struggle). There is a sense of community as each person depends on one another for support. The goal is to be closer to others, and therefore closer to God. In addition, the physical environment is structured in a way that allows

touch-points for socialization. For example, people talk before and after the worship service as they are seated together. Furthermore, refreshments are strategically placed throughout the church (e.g in hallway, in Study Group room). In fact, there is more socializing (and nonStudy Group topic-related chatter) when there is food present at events.

Interestingly, events that included more social and fellowship activities had more attendees than those that focused primarily on book study. Yet, for reasons that weren’t clear, it seems that many Study Group members do not socialize outside of church or the Study Group meetings.

Grace Community Church pastor speaks his message to the eager to learn audience.

“It’s kind of like a family.”

- anonymous 36

 OPPORTUNITY • Get more individuals (both members of our church and nonmembers) to attend the Study Groups.

• For Study Group attendees to develop relationships with each other that extend beyond church-related activities.

• Encourage members to build strong friendships parallel to the church community.

HOW MIGHT WE....

• Encourage more church members to attend a Study Group?

• Encourage Study Group members to socialize outside of church?

• Provide other ways for church members to develop stronger relationships with each other outside of Study Groups?

• Connect with each other, and with God, on a more spiritual level?

• Expand dialogue faith sharing and learning activity outside of the study group?

“I try to take advantage of going to Bible study. I enjoy the fellowship with other women.”

- anonymous “We eat a meal together, talk about our week, then have a discussion about some part or concept form the Bible.”

- anonymous

IDEAS • Questionnaire for our members to specify “outside interests.” Display this on the church website so others with similar interests can connect with each other • Create a series of Study Group “Topic” promotional flyers. At the bottom of each flyer, have several tear-offs, each representing a different perspective on the topic. Whoever takes a tear-off must come to class ready to contribute to the discussion with that viewpoint. These flyers can be placed inside the church and throughout the community to encourage new attendees.

• “Bring a Friend” event where Study Group members invite friends and family (church members or not) to a Study Group.

• “Change of Pace” event where Study Groups are held at alternate locations (e.g. parks, basketball court, coffee shop) and with different activities (e.g.

Scripture Trivia).

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NEW PERSPECTIVES INSIGHT

People can gain a richer, more meaningful understanding of the writings in the Bible when they are exposed to different viewpoints from their peers, in a setting that allows for those viewpoints to be shared.

“People’s minds work different than mine. Some people have ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking. I’m more methodical. I’m an engineer.”

- anonymous

 OPPORTUNITY

Of the participants interviewed, many expressed an important aspect of attending the Bible Study group was to hear the varying personal perspectives of the writings within the Bible. Listening to these perspectives served to either validate or act as a counterpoint to an existing perspective.

Perspectives are shaped by an individual’s background, such as secular knowledge, biblical knowledge, life experiences and disposition. Nevertheless, observation showed that not every class attendee was as comfortable speaking among the group as others. Those more outgoing members seemed to speak more often.

• To broaden the discussion of varying perspectives to a larger group, beyond the confines of the Study Group.

• For Study Group attendees to feel comfortable shedding light on their own background so that peers can make sense of their perspective and spark new ways of thinking.

• Enable less outgoing members to share their own knowledge and insights.

“Make it (the Bible) a guide in everyday living.”

- anonymous 38

HOW MIGHT WE....

“The main thing that happens in faith sharing is that you grow more… it becomes a venue to grow more in faith.”

• Provide a channel for communication to allow a larger audience to share their personal perspectives?

• Create an environment, on a larger scale, that makes people feel comfortable sharing their perspectives?

• Cultivate an environment that allows for all Study Group attendees to share their perspectives?

• Encourage others outside of the group that they should attend as a way to exchange life experiences and transfer their knowledge of the Bible?

- anonymous “Each person has been down different paths, which adds more perspectives.”

- anonymous

“I never thought of it like that!”

- anonymous

• Encourage others to join the study group and participate in faith sharing and learning?

IDEAS • Invite guest speakers who offer another point-of-view and encourage new attendees to our group.

• Leverage similar collaboration techniques used in design workshops, which are designed to allow equal contribution from all participants, in the Study Group.

• Create website, a channel for communication that isn’t bound by geography or time, to serve as an additional forum for people to contribute their perspectives on various topics.

• Have the teacher of the Study Group regularly ask attendees for specific examples of how the topic applies, or can be applied, to our own lives.

Church members chat at the beginning of the program. (pictured left) She greeted everyone who arrived in the same manner seen here, with a smile.

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INSTRUMENTS FOR LEARNING INSIGHT

While the Bible is the primary focus of teaching and learning for Study Group members, it is complimented by other sources of learning.

The materials used in the Study Groups are not limited to the Bible. Other books, music, visual media and social media are used as well. All are extensions of learning and spiritual enrichment, tying back to teachings of the Bible in some form.

Supplemental books used for study include devotionals (which contain religious thoughts for the day), books of prayers and books used as course materials for a topical class (the latter of which may be required). Members may read material prior to a group meeting as preparation, or read passages together during the Study Group. Some members may refer to a book that focuses on a particular topic in order to gain a thorough understanding, or make it easier to find relevant passages in the Bible by

aggregating them. Others even read different translations of the Bible to see how the wording of a passage varies.

Visual media include slide presentations or printed materials distributed at meetings. Music is sometimes played during weekly group meetings at worship and prayer events, but not necessarily study events. Social media is used to share information about events, or to share other media links that directly relate to topics recently discussed (or upcoming).

None of these complimentary sources are considered the “primary” source of Christian theology. That is left to the Bible alone.

OPPORTUNITY



• Branch-out learning beyond traditional book or scripture study.

• Make more Study Group materials available to all members of congregation.

• Create materials that supplement the Bible and enhance learning.

“It’s still the same today and tomorrow as it was 2000 years ago. The Bible becomes our guide to how we will do things in our life; our personal life and the life of the community.”

- anonymous 40

HOW MIGHT WE....

• Select or create additional material is appropriate for study?

• Create activities centered on other media to provide more learning experiences and faith sharing among congregation members?

• Encourage individuals to use materials available to them and that they are not required to purchase materials to attend the study groups?

IDEAS • Ask Study Group members, and our larger congregation, what topics interest them. Then, research relevant books and other media to use in our class.

• Ask volunteers to work with our church leaders to create take-home materials that are “finelytuned” to be relevant to the topics of the Study Group. Include a list of “triggers for class discussion” within each.

• Using the church website (or bulletin, social media page), create a member-contributed list of personally recommended literature, websites etc. that can be shared with the larger congregation for reference.

“The Bible is not a science book. I get the science part outside of the Bible.”

-study group teacher

“Make it (the Bible) a guide in everyday living.”

- anonymous Note taking during group discussion.

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Opportunity Map

BIBLE STUDY GROUPS



i n s i g ht

in s i g h t

in s i g h t

in s i g ht

in s i g ht

“Safe” Space

Interacting with Others

Fellowship

New Perspectives

Instruments for Learning

Opportunities

Opportunities

Opportunities

Opportunities

• To make all church members feel as though we can express ourselves openly, sharing our life experiences and thoughts, without fear of judgment and have the security of the group for advice and support.

• Expand our shared sense of community to the congregation and the community-at-large.



Ideas

• Occasionally hold Study Group at “relaxed” locations that promote an open and comfortable environment (e.g. our homes).

• Feature member-submitted, short biographies of church members in the church bulletin (or website), with particular focus on how their lives have been changed for the positive due to a closer relationship with God. • Give a sample presentation to the church, which includes a “live debate/ discussion” among current Study Group members so that others can see for themselves the value in having rich, spiritually nourishing, discussions.



• To combine the benefits of “expert-guided” worship service with the interactive nature of the Study Group.



• Get more individuals (both members of our church and non-members) to attend the Study Groups.

• Expand the interaction to people who don’t attend the Study Group (or even the church itself).

• For Study Group attendees to develop relationships with each other that extend beyond church-related activities.

• Create more social and spiritual activity that makes learning fun.

• Encourage members to build strong friendships parallel to the church community.



Ideas

• Hold ten minute Q-and-A sessions with our church leader at the end of the worship service.

• Promote attendance with one-sheet weekly newsletters that report highlights and quotes from Study Group discussions.

Include a way for congregation to submit new topics which will be scheduled and announced in the newsletter.

• Leverage social media to advertise Study Group activities and encourage “virtual” discussions among group members.

• “Build-A-Class” days in which church members can start new study groups with varying ages, topics and time frames.



Ideas

• Questionnaire for our members to specify “outside interests.” Display this on the church website so others with similar interests can connect with each other.

• Create a series of Study Group “Topic” promotional flyers. At the bottom of each flyer, have several tear-offs, each representing a different perspective on the topic. Whoever takes a tear-off must come to class ready to contribute to the discussion with that viewpoint.

These flyers can be placed inside the church and throughout the community to encourage new attendees.

• “Bring a Friend” event where Study Group members invite friends and family (church members or not) to a Study Group.

• “Change of Pace” event where Study Groups are held at alternate locations (e.g. parks, basketball court, coffee shop) and with different activities (e.g. Scripture Trivia).



• To broaden the discussion of varying perspectives to a larger group, beyond the confines of the Study Group.

• For Study Group attendees to feel comfortable shedding light on their own background so that peers can make sense of their perspective and spark new ways of thinking.

• Enable less outgoing members to share their own knowledge and insights.



Ideas

• Invite guest speakers who offer another point-of-view and encourage new attendees to our group.

• Leverage similar collaboration techniques used in design workshops, which are designed to allow equal contribution from all participants, in the Study Group.

• Create website, a channel for communication that isn’t bound by geography or time, to serve as an additional forum for people to contribute their perspectives on various topics.



Opportunities

• Branch-out learning beyond traditional book or scripture study.

• Make more Study Group materials available to all members of congregation.

• Create materials that supplement the Bible and enhance learning.



Ideas

• Ask Study Group members, and our larger congregation, what topics interest them.

Then, research relevant books and other media to use in our class.

• Ask volunteers to work with our church leaders to create take-home materials that are “finely-tuned” to be relevant to the topics of the Study Group. Include a list of “triggers for class discussion” within each.

• Using the church website (or bulletin, social media page), create a member-contributed list of personally recommended literature, websites etc. that can be shared with the larger congregation for reference.

• Have the teacher of the Study Group regularly ask attendees for specific examples of how the topic applies, or can be applied, to our own lives.

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4

APPENDIX

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INTERVIEW QUESTIONS • Do you attend a study group?

• How long have you been attending it?

• How did you initially get involved?

• Did you attend other study groups before it?

• What do you like about this one?

• Where does your study group take place?

• Why do you attend the study group?

• How is your study group conducted?

• Is there a leader of the group (formal or informal)?

• If there is a formal leader, how does he/she prepare?

• How is the leader chosen?

• How, if at all, does attending the study group affect your understanding of the Bible?

• How would you describe the nature of the class and why?

• What do you want to get out of attending this study group?

• Finish this sentence, “What surprises me the most about this class is…”

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PROCESS

ROUND ROBIN GROUP SKETCHING FOR DIAGRAM

ROUND 1

ROUND 2

ROUND 3

ROUND 4

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ABOUT TEAM DEEDENZO Ian DeJesus This is Ian’s third quarter at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) where he is pursuing an M.A. in Design Management.

He works as an Interaction Designer and Researcher at Bessemer Alliance, a Pittsburgh-based business and design strategy consultancy.

Ian’s modus operandi is to challenge assumptions and get to the root of a problem.

He relishes solving wickedly complex problems that result in meaningful solutions that meet the needs of users, and the business.

He has extensive experience designing solutions for a range of domains including operations command-and-control, computer networking, and medical administration.

When not doing school-work or workwork, he spends time with his wife and two daughters ages six-and-a-half and fourand-a-half.

Cheryl Edenfield This is Cheryl’s fourth quarter at SCAD where she is pursuing an M.A. in Design Management. She is a full-time graduate student, stay-at-home mom, military spouse and consummate volunteer. She currently lives on a military installation, and has lived in many states all over the continental United States, Hawaii, and one U.S. territory.

Cheryl is an adept planner and organizer with nearly two decades of professional experience in administration, higher education, strategic marketing, communications, content management, creative direction, graphics and design. She is known for her interdisciplinary project management skills, and has an affinity for solving complex problems as well as building strong relationships with everyone she works with.

When not focusing on study, she spends time with her husband and two children ages ten and five.

Brittany Strozzo This is the beginning of Brittany’s second year, or fifth quarter at SCAD, where she is currently pursuing an M.A. in Design Management (she was previously pursuing an M.A. in Graphic Design). She works as a Webmaster at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia, where she manages, maintains, and creates Web and print based graphic design.

Brittany is a graphic designer with years experience in advertising, page layout, Web design, CSS and HTML based coding, print based media, marketing, branding and identity, package design, social media management, digital photography, and other areas of graphic design development. She has strong leadership skills and strives to achieve at any challenge presented, no matter the difficulty. Brittany is very deadline oriented and works hard to build strong relationships with co-workers and management.

When not working, she spends time with her husband, family, and four pets. She is an avid animal rescuer as well and has worked with various rescues in Statesboro.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY De Rossi, Cristina. “Ethnography, Anthropology, and the Study of Religion.” Decoded Science. N.p., 30 July 2013. Web. 2014. <http:// www.decodedscience.com/ethnography-anthropology-and-the-study-of-religion/34319>.

FreeVectorMaps.com. “Map of United States of America with States - Outline.” Digital image. Free Vector Maps. January 24, 2014.

Accessed November 15, 2014. https://www.freevectormaps.com/united-states/US-EPS-01-1002.

Kelly, Matthew. The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. Hebron, KY: Dynamic Catholic Institute, 2012.

LeCompte, Margaret D., and Stephen L. Schensul. “Exploratory or Open-Ended Observation.” In Essential Ethnographic Methods: Observations, Interviews, and Questionnaires, 91-120. AltaMira Press, 1999.

Truth About Church. “What Does Non-denominational Mean? What Do Non-denominational Churches Believe?” Compelling Truth. Got Questions Ministries, n.d. Web. 21 Sept. 2014. <http://www.compellingtruth.org/non-denominational.html>.

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