What is it about some classes that makes one feel like one must receive all book-read or teacher-taught data and facts passively then be prepared to regurgitate it all upon request? Peter Spitaler, Th.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies who specializes in the New Testament, is keenly aware of the phenomena and presents a challenging alternative. He designs his classes so that his students receive many opportunities to work with the basic building blocks of scripture research and engage in thoughtful dialogue about the themes they are studying.

“My classes are based on the scripture texts; classroom dialogue and discussion are the rule and become livelier as each semester progresses,” Peter said, “and many of my students become accustomed to this approach for the very first time in their academic lives.”

Part of the mission of the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova is to offer ways of understanding Christian belief and practice within contemporary culture. Biblical studies are foundational to this objective in that the two testaments of the Bible provide a privileged record of God’s unfolding revelation as experienced and interpreted by the Jewish and Christian faith communities. In addition, the department looks to expand both conversation and collaboration across disciplines and traditions.

“In discussing the texts of the New Testament, I draw the students’ attention to the social, cultural and historical setting in which they developed; I lead with questions to help them sharpen analyses of what those texts may have meant to those who first wrote, heard and read them,” Peter said. “I tell my students that it is OK for them to question their own preconceived notions of text meaning. Present-day meaning can be best formulated once one is informed about the historical context in which the original texts came into being.”

Since all Villanova students are required to take a certain number of courses in theology and religious studies, Peter teaches students who major in nearly every discipline that the University offers, from modern languages, accounting and marketing to sociology, nursing and engineering.

“At the end of the semester, my students tell me that they are able to read much more critically,” Peter said. “I teach my students how to find facts, a significant accomplishment when one works with ancient texts, and use the proper tools to analyze them. Cultural, linguistic and historical data are often fluid, open to discussion.”