Student Learning and Formation: Reviewing Standard 3

DESCRIPTION: In this article Stephen R. Graham, ATS Strategic Director of Context and Continuity and Director of Accreditation, reviews Standard 3 of the 2020 ATS Standards of Accreditation, highlighting student learning and formation as central to theological schools. The principle-based Standards mention four formational dimensions—intellectual, human, spiritual, and vocational—which Graham points out were left intentionally undefined to fit each school's mission. Drawing from Daniel O. Aleshire's vision of formational theological education, the ATS Standards of Accreditation expect academic rigor, intercultural competency, and policies supporting flexible degree programs via quality educational modalities.

KEYWORDS: open access / free access; ATS Standards of Accreditation (2020); Colloquy article; dimensions of formation; student learning and formation; theological education

CITATION: Graham, Stephen R. 2024. "Student Learning and Formation: Reviewing Standard 3." Colloquy (Pittsburgh, PA), December 16. https://www.ats.edu/files/galleries/student-learning-and-formation-reviewing-standard-three.pdf.