Date
6-17-2026
Department
School of Education
Degree
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD)
Chair
J. David Judd
Keywords
Christian released time education, middle school students, spiritual development, Gen Z, transformative learning theory, phenomenology, religious education, biblical application, moral integrity, spiritual growth, personal transformation
Disciplines
Education
Recommended Citation
Mack, Jacqueline L., "Lived Experiences in South Carolina Released Time Education: A Phenomenological Study of Middle School Student Perceptions" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8642.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8642
Abstract
This phenomenological study investigated how middle school students perceive the influence of Christian Released Time Education (CRTE) on their spiritual development. Through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires with thirteen middle school participants in South Carolina, the research explored their lived experiences relative to embracing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, growing in Christian faith, and applying biblical principles to everyday life. Analysis of the data revealed four major themes: Spiritual Growth/Maturity, Sound Doctrine, Moral Integrity, and Personal Transformation. Each theme manifested through distinct subthemes that demonstrated the multidimensional impact of CRTE on participants’ spiritual development. The findings challenge prevailing assumptions about Gen Z’s religious disengagement and adolescents’ capacity for transformative learning, revealing that CRTE functions as a transformative educational experience that bridges biblical knowledge and practical application during a critical development period. Participants consistently reported significant growth in their relationship with God, enhanced biblical understanding, improved ethical decision-making, and more coherent faith identities as a result of CRTE participation. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of adolescent faith development while providing practical insights for religious educators, parents, churches and schools seeking to support the spiritual formation of middle school students in an increasingly post-Christian cultural landscape. The transformative framework that emerged offers a roadmap for effective CRTE implementation that respects both the developmental needs of adolescents and the theological foundations of Christian education.
