Theology faculty latest to consider tutorial reform
The University's Theology faculty is the latest Oxford academic department considering plans to cut the amount of tutorial time given to students.
The Oxford Student has learned that under proposals currently being discussed by the Theology Faculty Board, students studying core papers could receive just six tutorials per term.
The remaining two tutorials would be replaced by class-based teaching.
Chair of the Theology Faculty Board Dr Richard Cross of Oriel College said: "There is nothing exceptional about the possible arrangements for Theology.
"The plans are in an early draft stage, and there is no certainty that the Theology Faculty Board will accept them."
It is believed the reforms are being made for financial reasons, although Fellow and Tutor in Christian Ethics at Harris Manchester College, Reverend Dr Bernard Wannenwelsch says he thinks the planned changes "could be quite healthy.
"The current plans have some pedogagical value, although I'd be opposed to the idea of giving students more than two classes per term"
If passed, the proposals are unlikely to be implemented in time for the next academic year.
The Theology proposals follow similar plans to reduce tutorial teaching time in Law, Medicine and Physiology, as reported in last week's edition of The Oxford Student.
20th Jan 2005