The unit seeks to apply the theoretical understanding of academic research as well as the personal faith experience of the students to addressing some specific issues relating to faith and pastoral praxis within a post modern Church community and within an Australian social context. Drawing on the theoretical underpinnings of research in the field of human psychology and of the science of personal development, and reflecting on the praxis of religious education, the unit will invite the students: i) to analyse the contextual framework within which religious education occurs, both in terms of place (the Church in Australia today) and of people involved in the journey of faith and faith education; ii) to lay the foundations for further reflection and a specific plan of action within the ministerial, educative, and/or pastoral field of activity of each student.

Prerequisites:

• first level: none
• second level: none

Requirements:
3 hours per week

Assessment:

• first level
  • one 1,000 word book review 
    • or two 500 word short reflection papers - 20%
  • one 2,000 word essay - 50%
  • one 1 hour written examination - 30%
• second level
  • one 1,500 word field study/pastoral project - 35%
  • one 45 minute oral presentation/seminar - 15%
  • one 2,500 word essay - 50%

Bibliography:

• Coles, Robert. The Spiritual Life of Children. London: Harper Collins, 1992.
• Feldmeier, Peter. The Developing Christian: Spiritual Growth Through the Life Cycle. New York: Paulist, 2007.
• Fowler, James W. Stages of Faith:The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest for Meaning. New York: Harper & Row, 1981.
• ——. Becoming Adult, Becoming Christian: Adult Development and Christian Faith. Blackburn: Dove Communications, 1984.
• Gilligan, Carol. In a Different Voice:Psychological Theory and Women’s Development. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1993.
• Riera, Michael. Uncommon Sense for Parents with Teenagers. Berkeley, CA: Celestial Arts, 2001.
• Shea, John J. Finding God Again: Spirituality for Adults. Latham, MD: Rowman & Littlefields, 2005.
• Trainor, Michael. Nurturing the Spirit:Faith Education within Australian Catholicism. North Blackburn: Collins Dove, 1991.