COURSE DESCRIPTION

Media, family relationships, economics, post-modernity, politics, consumerism, etc. influence both adolescents and those who work with them. This course will guide students in examining a variety of those influences, evaluating both the positive and negative factors, and strategizing to build a culturally savvy ministry.

A WORD FROM PROFESSOR LAMBERT …

This course will assist students in critically analyzing and interpreting contemporary American youth culture for the purpose of understanding and ministering to adolescents. All aspects of culture have dramatic effects on teenagers and how they view themselves, the world, and God, so being able to observe and evaluate culture and its impact is critical to working with young people.

As a result of this course, students will:

•  Better understand the culture that shapes today’s adolescents and their families.

• Critically analyze various aspects of culture.

• Commit to being a student of culture for the purpose of ministering more effectively.

• Be an expert in at least one aspect of adolescent sub-culture.

YL 550 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: December 14, 2009

YL 550 major assignments:  Reading will include over 1500 pages from 6 text books, 6 learning activities and a final project.

 Additional YL 550 details are available to registered students only.