Diversity in Curriculum in Religious Education in Catholic Schools in Australia

Abstract

Summary The 1970s has been a period of significant change in the types and styles of religious education in Australian schools, both government and independent. 1 The current diversity in approach is not known widely nor is it widely recognized for its educational significance. This article sets out to consider the variety of approaches to religious education for senior classes in Catholic schools in Australia. Perspectives on the developments in this context could also have some relevance for interpreting the theory and practice of religious education in other settings. 1Following a series of Ministerial Inquiries into the place of religion in education in the government schools in each state during the 1970s, some state Departments of Education have initiated curriculum development projects in religious education – Tasmania, 1972 (terminated 1974); South Australia, 1974; Queensland, 1975; Western Australia, 1978. In addition, in both Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory, Higher School Certifica...