Qualitative Research, Second Edition
A Multi-Methods Approach to Projects for Doctor of Ministry Dissertations
by Tim Sensing
Imprint: Cascade Books
The second edition of Qualitative Research responds to the growing need in Doctor of Ministry programs for a textbook that guides students in Participatory Action Research, prospectus, and dissertation that reflect the recent trends in the discipline of practical theology.
The Standards of Accreditation for the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools states, "The Doctor of Ministry is an advanced, professionally oriented degree that prepares people more deeply for religious leadership in congregations and other settings." Standard 5.3 states, "The Doctor of Ministry degree has clearly articulated student learning outcomes that are consistent with the school's mission and resources and address the following four areas: (a) advanced theological integration that helps graduates effectively engage their cultural context with theological acumen and critical thinking; (b) in-depth contextual competency that gives graduates the ability to identify, frame, and respond to crucial ministry issues; (c) leadership capacity that equips graduates to enhance their effectiveness as ministry leaders in their chosen settings; and (d) personal and spiritual maturity that enables graduates to reinvigorate and deepen their vocational calling." In accordance with the standards, Qualitative Research guides students through appropriate research methods to satisfy the objectives of the degree in order to enhance ministerial leadership for the transformation of communities of practice.
Tim Sensing is professor of practical theology at the Graduate School of Theology at Abilene Christian University. Tim has taught research methods for the Doctor of Ministry program since 1999. He has consulted with doctoral programs in North America and Australia.
“Sensing’s plain-language guide for doing DMin research serves as a vital resource for DMin projects from conceptualization to reporting. Emphasizing the communal and transformative nature of DMin research clarifies that research is not just technical but can also testify to the actions and presence of God in the context and has the potential to catalyze lifelong learning and ministry development.”
—Mark Chapman, Tyndale Seminary
“As a DMin program director, I remain grateful for Tim Sensing’s indispensable book. Qualitative Research has become a proven reference guide to the research tools of practical theology that DMin students use to ask contextual questions about their ministry according to the academic standards of advanced ministerial education. This smartly updated second edition brings years of pastoral and teaching reflection to service in the church.”
—Gregory Heille, OP, Aquinas Institute of Theology