Phenomenological Approach to the Teaching of Religious Education: Sharing Knowledge to Benefit Religious Educators

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the Phenomenological Approach to the teaching of religious education as suggested by Ninian Smart (1968). It has been established that this approach to the teaching of religious education does not stress the acceptance of a particular faith or belief system, which is the privilege of religious bodies to do, nor does it press for conversion. It is committed to a search for religious meaning, purpose and value which is open to all men. It reflects a multiplicity of beliefs and non-beliefs. No belief system is seen as the only source of value in society. Professor Ninian Smart, who is a leading exponent of the approach has been careful to point out that “Phenomenological Approach” to religious education is not only concerned with providing information about the practices and beliefs of a particular religion but different religions.

Keywords: phenomenological approach, religious education, religious dimensions, knowledge