Research methods based on modelling and simulation (M&S) are gaining popularity among social scientists to study societal dynamics. Emphasising the importance of this research approach, the Department of Religion, Philosophy and History at the University of Agder initiated a methodology module to help students on the religious studies…

If world religions courses are created at all in public school districts, they often are designed to encourage cultural fluency and tolerance. It is a teachable moment for the teacher to witness in an hour these far-flung students moving beyond tolerance to collaboration. Taking on a world religions program typically is viewed as a risky…

In this article, the author provides an executive summary of the Toledo guiding principles on teaching about religions and beliefs in public schools in Spain. The Toledo Guiding Principles have been prepared in order to contribute to an improved understanding of the world's increasing religious diversity and the growing presence of religion in the…

Describes efforts to include the teaching about religion in state and national education standards, shortcomings in teaching about religion in schools, how schools should teach about religion, and teacher training issues. (PKP)

This article aims to enlarge the conversation about religion and public education by inviting readers to think about the benefits to be gained in society by providing a comprehensive religious studies curriculum in our public schools. In such a program, students will develop knowledge and understanding about various religious traditions, forge…

This project examines the religious implications of an approach to "limmudei kodesh" (primarily the study of Talmud) and "halakhah" (an integration of academic scholarship with traditional Torah study and the evaluation of the educational pros and cons of a curriculum built on such a synthesis). In the concerted effort over the…

Argues that U.S. public schools urgently need lessons dealing with religious liberty. Describes a new curriculum that was developed around the theme. Outlines the project's goals. Defines the curriculum's five major themes or "big ideas": (1) coming to America; (2) the Constitution; (3) U.S. pluralism; (4) for better, for worse; and (5)…

Many people are anxious about values, morality, and religion in the schools. Business, political, religious, and educational leaders are concerned; confusion is widespread. This document aims at assisting interested parties to understand better the source of some of the difficulties faced by parents, school board members, teachers, legislators,…

Presents the 1991 McCauley Lecture in which the argument is made that teaching is participating in the student's own creation of life. Contends that the student also participates in the teacher's self-creation. Asserts that this interrelationship is more important for personal liberation than the written curriculum. (CFR)

This paper is a preliminary assessment and proposed plan of action resulting from a discussion of the state of religious history in Indiana schools. A group of teachers, professors, and administrators met informally in these discussions to identify opportunities for change. The group recognized that religion has been a major force in history, and…

This guide completes a 6-year American Textbook Council project on religion in the schools. An inquiry into textbook content expanded into this exposition on religion, curriculum, and character education. The guide explores the sources of moral instruction in an era when spirituality comes in many forms, and cracks in public culture are apparent.…

Argues that the California History Social Science Framework brings challenges to elementary teachers. Reviews five of these challenges and recommends solutions. Contends that staff development is the key to successful implementation of the Framework. (CFR)

The growing movement for teaching about religion in the public schools, as distinguished from religious instruction or devotional exercises, reflects widespread concern regarding the phenomenon of religious illiteracy and the lack of knowledge or understanding of the significant role played by religion in U.S. life, past and present, and in world…

Asserts that most textbooks and curriculum guides continue to ignore what most social studies acknowledge: U.S. history cannot be taught properly without frequent discussion of religious topics and issues. Discusses topics and recommends resources for including the teaching about religion in U.S. history. (CFR)

This collection reports on the Gerontology in Theological Education (GITE) project developed at the Gerontology Center of Georgia State University, which was designed to introduce curriculum on aging into theological education. It focuses on the experiences of the Gerontology Center and three seminaries involved in the project: Candler School of…