Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Strengths of Teaching

Yung Suk Kim
Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity
Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University
May 20, 2026
 
I primarily teach foundational courses in Biblical Studies and the New Testament. My teaching strengths are defined by three core pillars:

First, I prioritize critically informed instruction that balances accessibility with academic rigor. My goal is to present complex scholarly views in a way that is understandable yet intellectually challenging. I integrate historical, social, cultural, and contextual analyses of biblical texts, always drawing clear implications for the contemporary ministerial context.

Second, I foster collaborative learning through structured student discussions. By utilizing consistent small-group channels throughout the semester, I create a stable environment where students can follow specific guidelines to report their findings. This allows them to learn with and from one another, making peer engagement a vital component of their critical development.

Third, I utilize intentional reflection tools to ensure the integration of knowledge. I require assignments based on a four-part template: New Knowledge, Unlearning, Aha Moments, and Challenges. This framework encourages students to move beyond rote memorization toward deeper personal and professional reflection. Student feedback consistently highlights this method as a transformative element of their learning journey.