Teaching and Learning > DOCUMENTS
Unseen worlds: placing children's spirituality on the map in Education Studies
Kate Adams
This paper will describe the creation and implementation of a 10-credit optional module entitled Unseen Worlds: Children’s Spirituality at level 6 as part of an Education Studies component of a degree programme. Within Education Studies, students explore a range of topics drawn from sociology, psychology and philosophy relating to teaching and learning in a wide range of educational settings, from schools to outdoor centres to museums. After completing the degree, the majority of the students go on to study for a post-graduate teaching qualification to teach in primary or secondary schools.
The spirituality of children has a strong place in all schools. According to the law, classroom teachers have an obligation to ensure the ‘spiritual, moral, social and cultural development’ of children (Education Reform Act 1988 and Education Act 2002). This legislation applies to all children, of all faiths and none, and so the module is therefore highly relevant to students wishing to work with young people. It is currently in its third year, recruits well and receives excellent student reviews.
This presentation will describe the module’s rationale and structure, the teaching methods involved, and the responses of students to the module. It is an exploration of the issues involved in teaching about spirituality outside a Theology and Religious Studies department, and of the achievements which can result.
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This page was originally on the website of The Subject Centre for Philosophical and Religious Studies. It was transfered here following the closure of the Subject Centre at the end of 2011.
