Realities and Challenges of Religion Courses in Higher Education : Focusing on the Case of Yonsei University

Abstract

Christianity courses at Christian colleges and universities are often aimed at converting students. However, religious education as a ‘liberal arts education’ should prioritize ‘religious studies education.’ This differs from other types of religious education, such as ‘faith education’ or ‘spirituality/character education.’ When this ideal approach isn't feasible due to practical constraints, an alternative could be ‘spirituality/character education’ within an ‘experiential education’ context. Ultimately, religious education should strive for liberal arts principles, which is the main stream of liberal and general education. Liberal arts based religious education involves fostering religious literacy, which includes: 1) understanding the nature and significance of religion itself, as well as diverse religious traditions; 2) identifying religious elements that underlie secular events. This form of education, which requires open dialogue with other academic disciplines like the humanities and natural sciences, can serve as a type of convergence education. To achieve this goal, institutions dedicated to liberal and general education need to be established, with full administrative independence. They must operate without interference from denominational authorities, university boards, or chaplains' offices. Guarantees for the independence of administration, the status of faculty, and academic freedom are essential. Religious education that embraces an interdisciplinary approach is suitable for senior students with a broader academic background. Thus, the curriculum should be adjusted to allow senior students to take religious studies courses. Additionally, there should be a broader range of courses that explore religions other than Christianity. Furthermore, ongoing research into ‘Christianity and liberal arts studies’ as an emerging discipline is essential.