Dissertation
Understanding the influence of secondary classical Christian education on faith adherence experiences of high school alumni: a mixed methods study
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Jun 2020
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00000117
Abstract
The Christian faith is experiencing a decline in faith adherence of young adults. The period of adolescence and emerging adulthood significantly influence an individual's faith, making secondary education a factor in an individual's faith formation. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to explore faith adherence lived experiences of high school alumni to understand their perceptions about which aspects of attending a secondary, classical Christian school helped equip them to remain committed to their faith after graduation. The mixed methods study approach was primarily phenomenological using a quant [right arrow] PHEN approach. Participants were identified through the quantitative phase of the study by using an online survey to assess current faith adherence and to collect background information. This survey utilized a modified version of the Youth Ministry Retention Questionnaire and the Christian Orthodoxy Scale and was analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis. The primary stage of research was a phenomenological qualitative study using a series of interviews and focus groups, artifact review, and a researcher journal. The survey had 50 participants of whom 10 participated in a follow-up interview to explore their experience qualitatively. This research extends current research around faith of adolescents into adulthood and provides a greater understanding of the influence that classical Christian education can have on an individual who remained committed to their faith after high school. Data analysis yielded findings that were organized into five major themes: (a) faith is not always easy, (b) it requires more than school, (c) relationships at school matter, (d) voluntary conversations about faith, and (e) classical Christian education is impactful. These themes led to the results that classical Christian education prepares and equips many alumni to remain committed to their faith after graduation, that there are a multitude of interconnected factors that contribute, and that knowledge of faith alone is not enough. In addition to suggesting that classical Christian education is impactful to graduates, the findings and results led to specific recommendations for classical Christian schools. Furthermore, the recommendations provide suggestions for any organization or individual seeking ways to help equip adolescents with a faith that remains with them into adulthood.
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Details
- Title
- Understanding the influence of secondary classical Christian education on faith adherence experiences of high school alumni
- Creators
- Matthew Aaron Breazeale
- Contributors
- Deanna Hill (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- 199 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991014695238104721