Course overview
This course aims to develop students' knowledge, skills and appreciation regarding the purpose and role of Catholic schools in the education of children and young people in contemporary contexts. Students will further their understanding of the cultural contexts of students in Catholic schools and critically explore the philosophical and theological foundations of Catholic education. They will develop knowledge and skills regarding approaches to Religious Education, the Religious Education curriculum framework for Catholic schools in SA, and the broader curriculum in the Catholic school. The course also explores and augments skills for the teacher's key role in curriculum design and leading learning as they critically reflect on their current practice in light of contemporary curriculum design theory. Participants develop a curriculum design initiative that relates to their own professional context.
Course learning outcomes
- Appreciate and understand the importance of context for the design of contemporary Religious Education curricula in Catholic Schools
- Articulate a philosophy for teaching and learning in the Religious Education learning area relevant to the contemporary Catholic School classroom
- Analyse key elements of the task of designing Religious Education curriculum
- Investigate and critique contemporary approaches to Religious Education and the integration of Religious Education across the curriculum in a Catholic School
- Design and implement effective curricula in Religious Education (or in an integrated curriculum) consistent with an articulated philosophy of Religious Education, drawing on the Crossways Religious Education Framework and course perspectives
- Identify the importance of the contemporary Religious Education learning and teaching resources.