Traces the changing patterns of curriculum definitions in the past 30-plus centuries, from primitive societies to the present. Focuses on three general definitions repeated in both general and religious education. Identifies problems confronting current religious education, stating that the definition of curriculum has become more precise over…

Outlines a series of components deemed essential for interfaith dialog and education: (1) productive interfaith education cannot occur in isolation; (2) interfaith education strengthens the separate faiths; and (3) these efforts should be initiated at an earlier age. Briefly addresses problems concerning curricula in religious institutions. (MJP)

Asserts that intelligent believers and nonbelievers share similar doubts and ethical commitments. Argues that education conscientiously taught for intelligent belief and nonbelief would result in greater communication between the two groups. Explores several curricular topics designed to illuminate and develop this thesis. (MJP)

Describes a special curriculum that combines religious studies and social science resources to offer a better understanding and acceptance of persons suffering from long-term mental disorders. Utilizes recent scientific research and sacred texts to investigate biological causes of mental illness and the ensuing cultural stigmatization. (MJP)

Proposes a framework for religious educators to evaluate existing resources and plan curricular strategies addressing the spiritual needs of homosexuals and the destructive effects of homophobia. Discusses the interrelationships among personal wholeness, spirituality, and sexuality. Follows the curricular model, "fashioning a people,"…

Examines the ecological issues within religious education. Suggests ways the curriculum can be restructured to adequately address ecological issues. Focuses on creation myths and their contribution to popular attitudes concerning the earth and ecological concerns. Proposes a reinterpretation of the creation myth in Genesis. (RW)

Contrasts John Dewey's attitude toward religion and the role of religion in the curriculum with the position of the Dutch Catechism on these two issues. Illustrates the significance of theological, religious, and philosophical principles on curriculum. Concludes that divergent positions concerning God and truth lead to different views on…

Investigates the relationship between moral reasoning and instructional preference in a cross-cultural setting. Questions whether the kind of schooling as well as the amount of schooling correlate with levels of moral reasoning. Finds significant correlations. Contends that the importance of this study lies in its use to facilitate the adaptation…

Summarizes the reconceptualists view of curriculum building. Responds to the critique that the reconceptualist view point is overly theoretical. Draws upon Paulo Freire's model of pedagogy to illustrate praxis based on a process of curriculum development that takes seriously the reconceptualist view of the social, historical, and political…

Maintains that greater cooperation among world religions can lead to interfaith dialogue and joint action to solve world environmental problems. Proposes models to follow in promoting interfaith dialogue and action. Recommends injecting a cooperative spirit into theological and lay education and the inclusion of the legal study of religion in…

Maintains that contemporary theology of creation is concerned with social, ecological, and nuclear crises, pointing out that many theologians assume responsibility for offering values needed for earth's survival. Reports on the perspectives of four theologians on creation: Gibson Winter; John Haught; A. R. Peacocke; and Sallie McFague. Suggest…

Contends that many people feel that academic excellence in higher education is being threatened by multicultural education. Provides a summary of the issues and argues that religious educators should be guided by the concept of "hospitality" regarding minority and other underrepresented groups in education. (ACM)

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)

Explores some of the conflicts in Jewish religious culture related to choosing literature to enhance or reflect literacy and to ensure continuity. Outlines questions that have stimulated postmodern skepticism about the stability of canons, and offers guidelines for selecting new materials into the canon and, hence, curriculum. (DSK)

Argues that problems with teaching the Talmud are methodological not didactic. Talmudic methodology is reviewed and summarized. Suggests a new curriculum based on four curricular stations from study of Mishnah to study of the Talmudic superstructure. Argues that the new method allows students to be active participants in the learning process. (DSK)