PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS OF THE PROGRAM

The task of the AGST and its partner schools is to foster the development of teachers, scholars, and leaders for education and ministry who will in turn train God’s people for their own ministries. Our educational philosophy is guided by the following beliefs.

We intend to treat students as adult learners

We intend to create classroom environments that empower learners, providing a safe open space for dialogue that is not dominated by teacher-talk

We intend to tie theory for practice both within and outside the classroom walls.

We intend to seek student participation and ownership of the program

We will seek strategic and intentional partnerships with seminaries, NGOs and churches

We desire to form long-term sustainability

We will engage Christian Philippine nationals who are eminently qualifies to participate

We will engage team-leadership not individuals focus

PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM

Guide participants to reflect on their own experiences, think critically and creatively, and act with empathy and passion;

Support students as they develop and embrace a philosophy of learning that facilitates transformation;

Assist a new generation of faculty and educational leaders to develop teaching, learning, and leading approaches which result in transformational learning in diverse individuals, institution, and cultures;

Lead students to integrate spiritual, biblical, theological dimensions learning as the core of holistic transformation;

Prepare graduates who are well grounded in sound theory and practice and will consistently reflect critically on their practices and theories, continually strengthening both.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Expertise in understanding and practicing transformational learning in their God-given vocation in the contemporary Asian context;

Critical thinking skills used in the classroom and in life;

A contextualized biblical worldview that informs teaching, learning, leading, and practice;

Healthy relationships demonstrating sensitivity to human diversity;

Skills in communication, teaching, organization, leadership, mentoring, and disciple making.

The ability to lead and model a life of Christ-like maturity.