When the vision is cast that the professional development plan for the school year involves training in the steps to plan and teach biblically integrated instruction provided by Transformed PD, the results are varied. For some educators, the news brings a sense of relief that, finally, they will learn exactly what biblical integrated instruction is and the procedures to do it. For others, there is the concern that the training will be short term focus, only to be replaced by something different during the following year. There also may be the concern that this training will be just one more thing to add to the long list of teaching responsibilities.
While a new professional development program can be intimidating, it’s still manageable, especially when there is a clear understanding of exactly what training for Christ-centered instruction provided by Transformed PD includes.
8 Commons Misconceptions about Biblically Integrated Instruction
Today, we’re unpacking 8 misconceptions surrounding the implementation of Christ-centered instruction (also known as biblically integrated instruction) in the classroom.
Misconception #1: I Need to be an Expert in the Bible to Implement Christ-Centered Instruction.
Reality: You can begin even with limited biblical knowledge, but as you continue to study and practice, your knowledge will naturally grow and deepen. You don’t need to be a scholar; a willingness to learn and apply what you know is more important.
Misconception #2: I Need to Apply Biblical Principles or Scripture Every Day in Every Lesson I Teach.
Reality: It’s more effective to strategically choose the right moments within a unit or series of lessons to offer a deeper biblical perspective. This allows for focused reflection and discussion without feeling forced or overwhelming.
Misconception #3: I Have to Create All New Curriculum as I Implement Christ-Centered Instruction
Reality: Not to worry! You can adapt your existing curriculum to provide opportunities for your students to think biblically about what they are learning. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Just find ways to reveal biblical truth from within your subject matter.
Misconception #4: I am not a Bible Teacher, so it is not my Responsibility to Apply Biblical Principles in my Content
Reality: As a Christian educator, you have a responsibility to nurture the whole child, which includes their spiritual development. By intentionally seeking out opportunities to connect your subject matter to the Bible, you can help your students see the relevance of Christianity in everyday life.
Misconception #5: Biblical Integration Doesn’t Work in my Subject Area
Reality: Scripture speaks to all aspects of life and subject matters, and all content areas contain biblical principles. Colossians 1:15-17 tells us that Christ is in all and through all, and he holds all things together. Therefore, biblical truth is revealed in math, social studies, the fine arts, science, language, etc. We’ll help you navigate this learning.
Misconception #6: Biblical Integration Happens Naturally for me as I Teach
Reality: Wonderful! While you might see connections easily, intentionally planning learning opportunities for your students to discover those connections will ensure a deeper learning experience.
Misconception #7: Biblical Integration is not Appropriate for the Lower Elementary Grades
Reality: Even young children can grasp simple biblical concepts and how they relate to their lives. Developmentally appropriate strategies can help lower school students think biblically about the world around them.
Misconception #8: This is too Hard and Requires Too Much Work.
Reality: It’s true, Christ-centered teaching can be challenging at first, but it’s a learning journey, and like any skill, it gets easier with time and continued implementation. This is why we build peer learning groups into the integration plan and provide direct access to our team to ensure your utmost confidence.
Partner with Transformed PD for Your School’s Biblically Integrated Instruction
Transformed PD’s training for biblically integrated instruction for educators offers a distinct approach to revealing biblical worldview in the classroom. It’s not about rote memorization and standardized models. Instead, the PAQ Method is an approach that empowers you to lead your students on a collaborative journey of spiritual discovery. You will learn how to reflect on and uncover biblical principles in your lessons and subject matter in a way that is organic, meaningful, and profoundly transformative for you and your students.
