Course content

The subject focuses on scientific approaches to the study of religions and worldviews, emphasizing controversial topics, conspiracy theories, and critical thinking as they manifest in media, social arenas, and material culture. Didactical perspectives on the opportunities and challenges associated with these academic approaches to studying religions and worldviews are presented and discussed.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student

• has gained theoretical knowledge to teach about controversial topics, conspiracy theories, and critical thinking adapted to the student diversity.

• possesses knowledge of some of the most prevalent controversial topics and conspiracy theories in Norway and worldwide today, as well as how these are expressed in media, social arenas, and material culture.

• is familiar with specific teaching methods that can handle controversial topics and prevent conspiracy theories among students.
• possesses knowledge of lesson plans for fostering critical-analytical thinking, pluralism of perspectives, and source criticism.
• has advanced knowledge of didactical perspectives on teaching about religions and worldview.

Skills

The student

• Is able to analyze how controversial topics and conspiracy theories are expressed in media, social arenas, and material culture.

• can apply relevant theories and approaches to teach about controversial topics, conspiracy theories, and critical thinking, with an emphasis on fostering critical thinking and source criticism.

• is capable of developing lesson plans that account for pluralism of perspectives, handle controversial topics, and prevent conspiracy theories.

• can adapt teaching to students' backgrounds and pre-existing knowledge, as well as to the media and social contexts they engage with.

General competence

The student

• Is able to systematically plan, evaluate, and revise teaching plans based on the curriculum in religious education.
• can analyze the needs of student groups and critically assess and adapt teaching to all students to strengthen inclusion and community

Learning methods and activities

The course is structured with regular weekly classes. Excursions may take place outside of standard class hours. Teaching methods vary, including lectures, individual and group assignments, discussions, and both oral and written student presentations. Academic discussions and other academic interaction are important forms of work and learning, and all students are expected to contribute actively to such activities. For this reason, several teaching sessions that include this will have mandatory attendance. Which sessions this applies to will be stated in the semester schedule. Students are expected to come prepared for teaching, so that they can contribute to the learning activities in the best possible way,

Compulsory assignments

• Compulsory activity according to the course description

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Passed KRLE 1 and KRLE 2, including R&D assignment (total 60 credits).

Required previous knowledge

Completed KRLE 1 and 2. Completed means that the student has passed all mandatory work requirements, but not necessarily passed the exam.

Course materials

The complete reading list will be published on Canvas (the digital learning platform) before the course begins.

Credit reductions