Developmental Psychology and Young Children's Religious Education

This book explores younger children's religious education, challenging the belief that they lack the ability to conceptualize God in abstract terms. It provides statistical evidence from a study with 431 children and 47 teachers, revealing a discrepancy between teachers' perceptions and children's actual abilities. The author argues for teacher-training courses to include contemporary developmental research to enhance children's conceptual abilities and understanding of abstract concepts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 129 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book delves into the realm of young children's religious education, shedding light on the conceptual pre-requisites for their learning and highlighting the challenges that both children and their teachers encounter in the RE educational process. Conducted through a comprehensive study involving 431 children aged 5 to 7 years from diverse schools, both faith-based and non-faith, and 47 teachers from the same schools as the children, this book offers a profound insight into the world of younger children's religious education. Through statistical evidence, it debunks the notion that young children lack the ability to conceptualize God in abstract terms. The information gathered from these children and their teachers reveals a significant discrepancy between the teachers' perceptions of young children's conceptual abilities for RE learning and the children's actual abilities demonstrated throughout the study.

In response to this discrepancy, author Petrovich argues that teacher-training courses for primary RE must be redesigned to incorporate a substantial component of contemporary developmental research that is directly relevant to children's conceptual abilities and understanding of abstract concepts. This book serves as a vital resource for students and researchers in developmental psychology, religious education, teacher education, education studies, and cultural anthropology. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the complexities involved in shaping young children's religious beliefs and practices, offering valuable insights into the educational and psychological aspects of this critical field.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367436209