Reflection: Purpose & Practice of Christian Studies 

Outcome 2.1

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Within Equip one of the questions that was asked and explored was 'Why do we have Christian Studies?'. This a big question to consider, because sometimes we teach subjects, teach in a certain way, create our classroom with a certain feel just because that's what you do. It is vital to understand the driving force, the meaning and aim behind what we do and why we do it as educators. 

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So, the question 'Why do we have Christian Studies?' or 'What is the purpose and practice of Christian Studies?':

   -   Christian Studies is NOT a faith formation opportunity where the educator portrays their personal beliefs. Rather, it is to explore the theology of key Lutheran concepts and other religious beliefs and equip students to find meaning in their own lives and reflect on their own experiences as they begin to develop their own identity (LEA) .

   -  Christian Studies aims for students to develop religious literacy which equips students to make sense of, respond to and question different religions and worldviews and make sense of their own life and choices (CSCF, 2015, p.8). 

   -   I believe Christian Studies unpacks the values, culture and foundation of which the Lutheran school is built on in a classroom setting. This is vitally important for student to see and experience the WHY behind how the school approaches things and why we take part in chapels and devotion. 

   -   Within a Christian Studies classroom may be the only opportunity students have to unpack the meaning of life and be exposed to different religious beliefs and understandings in a respectful, open and trusting learning environment.

   -   Christian Studies is all about creating opportunities for students to grow in their personal beliefs and possible faith, and letting them explore and encouraging questions to be asked so that they will possibly come to a deeper knowledge, understanding and experience of who God is and who they are with no pressure or assumption that they will believe in the Lutheran faith and beliefs.

   -   Through teaching Christian Studies it is hoped that students undertake on a journey that is engaging and encouraged throughout their whole time within Lutheran schooling. Not just through Christian Studies lessons, but the whole purpose, image, values and beliefs that the school is built on and portrays through devotions, Chapels, the way people relate with each other and the respect, trust, love and grace shown to others. 

   -   The fact that we, as educators, have the opportunity to inspire students in learning about the message of Jesus, how he came to save us, his never-ending love and grace and how God speaks through the bible and through stories is a privilege. 

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What might I need to change as an educator?

- Inquiry approach- students actively involved in learning and exploring- finding their own discoveries

- Importance of respectful dialogue in creating a learning environment that can involve challenging and respectful conversations involving different beliefs and views. 

- Consciously not portraying my own beliefs and slant on the ideas and concepts, so that this allows students to explore the concepts and content and discover their own thoughts and beliefs

- Focus more on the skills of religious literacy- so that students have the skills to go out and apply their understanding to decipher the meaning of life and be able to develop their own worldview of who they are and who God is in different environments.