The Challenge: 3. A Worldview Framework Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

The Challenge: 4. Present a dynamic understanding of Islam Islam as a vision of life and a way of life; an Islamic worldview Many faces of Islam Islam shaped by particular context (culture, tradition & history) in which it lives: past & present. Qur’an is primary But insights from other knowledges sources supplemental & important. Qur’anic injunctions To be understood in light of context from which they emerged. Require interpretation Basic freedom of belief Freedom to explore Islamic principles; two central themes of Islam. Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

The Result: 1. Transformation of Islamic Religious Education Islamic Project: inter-religious; deepened understanding of self & others From information imposed to engaging the learner. From fixed rituals & beliefs to freedom to explore Qur’anic principles. From politicized/violent Islam to one of wisdom, guidance & direction for all of life. From rigidly imposed beliefs/behaviours to a dynamic vision for life and a way of life. From prescription to freedom to explore Islam anew. Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

The Results: 2. Comments by project members Project allowed members to think systematically, creating new areas of thought. Safe environment to explore new thoughts & ideas, even ask big questions. Many gained a stronger connection to their Islamic tradition and beliefs. Many questions answered. Asking the right questions leads to new insights. Worldview framework & Socratic style of questioning led to new insights. New insights lead to new questions. Religion/Islam disassociated with violence. Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

The Results: 3. Valuable Resource for Religious Education Teachers Engaging the learner Invites all to take an active role in determining their own beliefs & values. Creates a dynamic approach to one’s beliefs & values: Continuous process of questioning, understanding, reflection, articulation & new questions. A worldview approach: Interdisciplinary & comprehensive. Inclusive of all worldviews. Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Conclusion Ignorance leads to stereotyping and violence Education models need to engage the learner Religions/Islam are dynamic visions of life and ways of life. Worldview framework with Socratic approach resulted in considerable growth among project members Worldview approach to Islam (or any religious or secular worldview) is a valuable resource for religious educators/ teachers. Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Thank You Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015

Selçuk/Valk - Skopia 2015