Program

AICC is a basic graduate course in the foundations of Christian communication. Subjects taught during this intensive three-week Institute include:

• Communication Principles and Theories

Different communication theories examined and their relative impact on ministry assessed; the fundamentals of effective communication, and persuasion.

• Audience Understanding, Strategy, and Planning  

The primacy of audience analysis; felt needs and audience receptivity; the process of spiritual decision-making; strategic thinking, and communicationally sound planning.

• Research in Ministry Development

Introduction to research and the use of information for effective communication.

• Cultural Implications for Communication

Insights from cultural anthropology; the impact of world view; Gospel and Culture; the impact of Culture on the shape of Gospel communication and audience receptivity.

• Biblical and Theological Foundations

Biblical foundations for communication, God's communicational activity; the example of Jesus; the incarnation as the ideal communication model; communicating kingdom values.

• Effective Use of  Traditional and Modern Media

Factors influencing choice and use of different media; comparative media study; case studies in the use of indigenous media such as Thai music and dance; internet and information technology.

• Communication and Leadership

The work of a leader is primarily one of communication. Included are topics on leadership development, leadership roles, ethics, public relations, and the qualities of a leader.

These topics, together with practical workshops, field trips, and special seminars, form a complete approach to advanced training in communication for leaders in Christian organizations and churches.

Elective Workshops

A variety of special workshops will be provided during AICC-13, depending on student interest and needs.

At this time, the following workshops are being considered, but others may be added later:

• a radio workshop with focus on local live FM broadcasting

• a workshop on Internet and WEB communication

• a video/television workshop

Field Projects

A unique feature of AICC is the application of learned principles in a field project in the participant's own area of ministry. Approximately one year is given to complete the project. During that period, AICC faculty will provide assistance and counsel through correspondence and/or personal visits. AICC diplomas are only issued after a field project has been completed and a report submitted. Participants must obtain approval for their projects from the leaders of their own churches or organizations prior to the Institute.

Projects in the past have been as varied as the participants. There are production and evaluation of new types of radio programs in Thailand and Taiwan; analysis of needs of college students in Manila; producing a video for families in Malawi; audio-based bible study material for Christian families in Fiji; revision of a correspondence course in Bangladesh; cassette ministries in Bangladesh and Indonesia; new evangelistic magazines in the Philippines and Malaysia; production of puppet-shows (wayang) and use of other traditional art forms in Bali; development of communication training courses for ethnic groups in Myanmar; analysis of music ministry in Singapore; evangelistic mobile painting exhibition in colleges and universities in the Philippines; training programs in India and Sri Lanka, and many more.