ELD5300EN - The Urban Youth Mission Leader

Course description

This course analyzes the leadership theories, issues, trends and methodological approaches for effective adolescent mission within an urban context. Students evaluate best practices in transformative urban adolescent social systems; engage holistic strategic development of a variety of converging urban social issues such as urban adolescents, and organizational structural development; exegete a specific urban city; learn how to engage urban conflict, and gain expertise in the facilitation of effective networking and asset-based services.

How this course benefits students

This course provides students with a robust framework for understanding and addressing the complex issues faced by urban adolescents. By exploring leadership theories, engaging with urban social systems, and applying holistic and strategic approaches, students are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their professional roles. The development of skills in conflict management, networking, and the exegetical analysis of urban contexts further enhances their ability to create effective and sustainable interventions. Ultimately, the course prepares students for careers that demand a deep understanding of urban dynamics and a commitment to transformative leadership and service.

Why this course is important

This course is important because it provides students with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills needed to address the unique challenges of urban adolescent mission work. By focusing on leadership development, program effectiveness, practical skills, and social justice, the course prepares students to make a meaningful impact in their professional roles. It equips them with the tools to navigate complex urban environments, foster positive change, and contribute to the holistic spiritual development of young people in these settings.

Credit hours
3 hours
Subject area
Emerging Leadership
Educational level
Master
Learning type
Instructional
Prerequisites
None
Upcoming terms
Pending
* Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Registrar's office with schedule questions.
Professor
Dr. David Flood, Professor of Gen Z and Urban Youth

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

This course is biblically based through its integration of Scripture into leadership practices, social justice initiatives, practical applications, mentorship, and evangelism. By grounding its content in biblical teachings and principles, the course ensures that students are equipped to approach urban adolescent mission work with a deep understanding of Christ-focused values and a commitment to making a transformative impact.

Missionally driven

The course is missionally-driven through its focus on addressing urban challenges, emphasizing practical application, promoting effective leadership, fostering community engagement, advocating for social justice, enhancing evangelism and discipleship, preparing for diverse contexts, and fostering transformational impact. By aligning its content and methodologies with the broader goals of Christ-centered missional work, the course equips students to engage effectively in ministry, make a positive impact in urban settings, and contribute to the overall mission of spreading the Gospel and promoting social justice

Contextually informed

The course is contextually informed through its focus on urban environments, holistic approach to adolescent development, exploration of local social issues, contextual analysis, practical application, cultural and social context, adaptation of mission strategies, evaluation and feedback, integration with community resources, and preparation for real-world application. By addressing these aspects, the course ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of how to engage with and support urban adolescents effectively. This contextual knowledge is crucial for developing relevant and impactful missional strategies that meet the specific needs of diverse urban communities.

Interculturally focused

The course is interculturally focused through its emphasis on urban diversity, examination of multicultural social issues, understanding of cultural influences on faith, development of intercultural competencies, engagement with diverse community resources, practical experience in multicultural settings, analysis of cultural dynamics, intercultural leadership training, encouragement of cultural exchange and learning, and application of theoretical and practical knowledge. By addressing these aspects, the course ensures that students are prepared to engage with and support individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds effectively, making their missional efforts more inclusive, respectful, and impactful.

Practically minded

The course is practically minded through its emphasis on real-world application, practical experience, hands-on learning activities, skill development, intercultural competence, collaboration with organizations, problem-solving, evaluation and feedback, career preparation, and integration of academic and practical knowledge. By focusing on these aspects, the course ensures that students gain the skills and experience needed to effectively engage in missional work in the urban setting and make a meaningful impact in their professional roles.

Experientially transformed

The student is experientially-transformed through the emphasis on practical engagement, reflective learning, real-world application, immersive experiences, skill development, networking, and collaboration. By integrating these elements into its curriculum, the course provides students with valuable hands-on experiences that transform academic knowledge into practical skills. This experiential approach enhances students’ personal and professional growth, preparing them to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities.