Addresses some of the concerns surrounding the controversy of religion and public education. Finds some common ground in the ethical issues shared by character education and citizenship education and the nondenominational moral teachings in religious education. Outlines four broad strategies for maintaining productive community discussions. (MJP)

Criticizes the notion that secular humanists and religious educators can equitably agree on a common or middle ground. Maintains that the so-called middle ground is often primarily secular ideology with a token acknowledgment of the validity of religious thought. Argues for a more open discussion with both positions receiving equal consideration.…

Discusses the educational philosophy of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus and its impact upon the women of Nigeria and Ghana. This religious instruction allowed them to attain a liberated means of self-expression and leadership faithful to their cultural heritage as African women and their formation as Christians. (MJP)

Discusses philosophy and practices of Jewish education. Contends that Judaism provides a tolerant approach toward other cultural groups that could be a model for British moral and spiritual education. Asserts that a feeling of belonging to a group that has a past, present, and future helps children strive to be decent and moral. (CFR)

Explores three constitutional responses to religion and the respective consequences for moral education. Explores the place of England and Wales on this spectrum, and examines the effects of the 1988 Educational Reform Act on moral/religious education. Highlights the role of reason in resolving autonomy/authority conflicts in religious education.…

In these papers the authors consider the changing societal context for education, examine concepts and research on existing recurrent education practice, and document constraints on and future prospects of inservice education for teachers. The introduction provides an overview of the teaching role in the paper, "Recurrent Education for…

The history of the study of religion at Wellesley College from its founding in 1875 until 1980 is considered. Initially, faculty were sought who possessed expressed Christian character and were able to instruct in the bible, which was a study requirement until 1968. The predominantly Protestant-Christian orientation of the religion department…

This book is one in a series that present stories by practitioners in Catholic schools. The papers include: "The Write Traits: Trait-Based Writing Assessment and Instruction for the 21st Century" (Arlene Bertellotti-Weidner); "What's in a Name?" (James Bleecker); "What is a Christ-Centered Environment?" (Michael L.…

Examines spirituality in music, not as a historical perspective, but as an essential, experiential component. Discusses transcendent states engendered in religion, music, and art. Calls for a new conceptualization of arts education and curriculum incorporating spirituality into humanistic education and self actualization. (MJP)

Contends that teachers have an essential part to play in the moral and spiritual education of students. Discusses a white paper on moral education issued by the British government. Concludes that there is no conflict between spiritual and moral education and teaching the knowledge and skills necessary for employment. (CFR)

Maintains that a paramount task of religious education is to expose and redress social injustice. Identifies two of the most pervasive problems as sexism and racism. Argues that, because of their theological authenticity and influence, religious educators are in a unique position to effect social change. (MJP)

Articles in this issue of "Current Issues in Catholic Higher Education" concern the results of pilot projects in peace and justice education at several colleges and universities, along with initiatives made at other institutions. In "Report on ACCU's Pilot Programs," David Johnson provides an overview of the experiences of the…

Provides a concise historical overview of theological thinking concerning fundamentalism, absolutism, and relativism. Considers corresponding responses to issues regarding multiculturalism. Concludes that a diversity of viewpoints is necessary for society to learn from its mistakes and progress in a positive fashion. (MJP)

Identifies authenticity as the idea that there exists an innate and knowable self. Discusses this concept and how it relates to social, philosophical, and religious thought. Compares the Western concept of self, autonomous and individualistic, with the more interdependent and enigmatic Eastern ideal. (MJP)

Finds Protestant fundamentalists and Muslims in England, Australia, and the United States turning away from government schools, finding official policies antithetical to their beliefs. Argues that traditional Judaeo-Christian beliefs have been replaced by the antinomianism of those opposed to any universal moral law. Suggests that the present…