Looking within: an international course on race and theology to support student learning of racism

Abstract

This qualitative research study explores the impact of in-depth exploration of race in theology on student learning in a voluntary reading group at a Protestant university in Tanzania and students enrolled in a theology course at a Catholic college in the United States. The unique course featured students gathering at their own institutions and together online to explore the construct, history, and operation of race in Christian theology. Researchers interviewed 20 student participants and gathered sample assignments for analysis. Using critical race theory and critical pedagogy as theoretical lenses, the results indicate that while students were readily able to identify examples of systemic racism and the impacts of structural racism in the Christian church, white students in the US were unable to identify the impact of racism on their own racial identities. Implications for research and practice highlight the need for more collaborative research projects with researchers of colour as well as opportunities throughout the higher education experience for students to engage in the continuous process of understanding the role of systemic oppression in society.