Guidelines for Teaching Christian Education to Learners in The 21st Century: Case Study of Local Churches in The 7th Ministerial Unit Under The 1st District of The Church of Christ in Thailand.

Abstract

          This study aims to survey problems and challenges that the local churches in the 7^th ministerial unit under the 1^st district of the Church of Christ in Thailand face in regards of Christian Education. It also aims to present guidelines for teaching Christian Education to learners in the 21^st century, with an emphasis on learners between 6-12 years old. The data were collected from 20 members of the five local churches in the 7^th ministerial unit under the 1^st district of the Church of Christ in Thailand. These five local churches are Chang Kam Church, Surbpaphon Church, Tungtom Church, Nongbuasam Church, and Pangpimontham Church.

          From this research, it is found that the key problems the local churches face are related to both the teachers and the management of Christian education ministry. The problems include the limitation of Christian education teachers, the absence of a Christian education team or committee, and the discontinuity of trainings for Christian education teachers. The main challenges for the local churches in doing Christian education ministry have to do with the characteristics of the 21^st century learners as well as the training and recruitment of teachers.

          The guidelines for teaching Christian Education to learners in the 21^st century presented in this research are constructed from the discussion of the research findings and the researcher’s interpretation of the findings through the lenses of selected learning theories, faith development theory, and learning skills needed for the 21^st century. With the understanding that Christian education is the process of teaching and learning, as well as nurturing Christian faith in the lives of learners, the researcher presents guidelines for teaching Christian education to learners in the 21^st century. The guidelines contain 5 integrated components: 1) teach with love, 2) be aware of readiness, 3) use various teaching methods, 4) stimulate the learners’ participation, 5) take on the role of the coach.