Foundations of Religious Education in the Church (DR1709A)

Content

This unit serves as an introduction to the nature, purpose and approach of Religious Education in the life of the Church. Students will theologically reflect on the aims of Religious Education and will explore the role and nature of the curriculum in the life of the church. This unit will also explore key understanding that Religious Educators need to have about the students of Religious Education, including various approaches to delivering Religious Education in a parish setting. This unit is a foundational unit equipping students who want to take further Religious Education units.

Learning outcomes

Pedagogy

Classes will also have an online tutorial. Students will be expected to contribute to six discussions on a fortnightly basis.

Indicative Bibliography

• Boojamra, John Lawrence. Foundations for Orthodox Christian Education. Crestwood, N.Y.: St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, 1989.
• Boys, Mary C. Educating in Faith: Maps and Visions. San Francisco: Harper and Row, 1989.
• Estep Jr, James R, Anthony, MJ, and Allison, GR. A Theology for Religious Education. Nashville: B.&H. Publishing Group 2008.
• Groome, Thomas H. Christian Religious Education: Sharing Our Story and Vision. 1st Jossey-Bass ed. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1999. (Recommended for purchase )
• Harris, Maria. Fashion Me a People: Curriculum in the Church. 1st ed. Louisville, KY.: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1989.
• Hattie, John. Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximizing Impact on Learning. London: Routledge, 2012.
• Koulomzin, Sophie. Our Church and Our Children. Crestwood, NY: SVS Press, 1975, reissued 2004.
• Pazmini, Robert W. Foundational Issues in Religious Education. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker 2008.
• Schmemann, Alexander. “Liturgy and Education” in Liturgy and Life. Syosset, NY: OCA-DRE.
• Vrame, Anton C. *The Educating Icon: Teaching Wisdom and Holiness in the Orthodox Wa*y. Brookline, Mass.: Holy Cross Orthodox Press, 1999. (Recommended for purchase )
• Yount, William R. The Teaching Ministry of the Church. 2nd ed. Nashville: B.&H. Publishing Group 2008. *** Note: Due to the lack of English resources for Orthodox Religious Education, some books do not have newer editions.

Assessment