In Richard Osmer’s book Practical Theology: An Introduction, he outlines a four-fold model of theological reflection. Osmer’s aim is primarily to equip congregational leaders in theological interpretation in ministry. Osmer’s four tasks are:

1. The descriptive-empirical task asks, ‘What is going on?’ – gathering information
2. The interpretive task asks, ‘Why is it going on?’ – drawing on theories in arts and sciences to understand patterns and dynamics
3. The normative task asks, ‘What ought to be going on?’ – using theological concepts to find ethical norms to guide responses
4. The pragmatic task asks, ‘How might we respond? – determine strategies for action for a desirable outcome

This model is designed for practitioners to use in pastoral care situations. The big question raised in this model is: what norms and theories, both in arts and sciences as well as from theology, should one use? Osmer’s questions are situated in the Christian tradition but could be applied to other faith traditions.

You can see some diagram’s of Osmer’s model, as well as as summary of the book here.