#worldgeochat is a weekly chat focused on teaching geography and global studies. Chats vary between geography specific topics as well as general teaching and education topics. ALL are welcome in worldgeochat!
It's Tuesday night and that means #worldgeochat! Tonight we are talking about Teaching World Religions with @KateSoules & @bpmarcus!
Who are you and where are you chatting from tonight?
#worldgeochat Todd Shriver, K-12 Technology Coach from North White (IN). Former SS teacher joining tonight from Reynolds, Indiana, located about 25 minutes north of Purdue University.
Hi everyone! I'm Ben, originally from Chicago, now living in Washington, DC. I work @NewseumReligion as the religious literacy specialist. Currently on a plane over Kansas heading to #ncss17. Excited to join #worldgeochat
Ed, 7th grade world geography teacher in the suburbs of Chicago. I can't wait to learn of new resources and strategies to teach world religions. #worldgeochat
Happy Tuesday, #worldgeochat! It's c/s from NG in DC. Fact: Working with so many gracious religious leaders on content has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me @NatGeoEducation.
While I'm sure I'll go to teacher jail for sharing this, here are a ton of religions resources. Let me know if the link doesn't work for you. https://t.co/ZDsUIUVYmo#worldgeochat
So much awesome learning at that conference! Read more about it here! There is so many things that were new to me that I plan to use! https://t.co/AWEfS6GFSF#worldgeochat
In reply to
@cheffernan75, @geteach, @mrgeocjhs, @storiestoldinsf
A1 I of course have to mention the new Religious Studies Companion Document to @NCSSNetwork's C3 Framework. I think it pretty clearly states why it's important to study religion academically. #worldgeochathttps://t.co/gzBzZtcb5C
#worldgeochat A1 In my opinion, religions drive our beliefs and actions today. Want my Ss to have a basic background of the major religions to break through the stereotypes that they tend to see in the media today.
A1: Because it is the lens through which so many people interpret and participate in the world around them. We need to understand how people think. #worldgeochat
A1 huge part of culture, plus so much conflict in the world on religious differences. Understand where others are coming from to prevent it in the future #worldgeochat
A1 If we are a global society (and we are) we need to know more about people than foods and fashion. We need to understand their FAITH and learn to respect the differences & embrace the similarities!
#worldgeochat
Religion shows up in so many different parts of education, much more than just history curriculum. It's at the heart of so many current events. And, students bring their religious identities with them into the classroom #worldgeochat
A1: Religion is a guiding force in many people's lives. It effects how people live in both their beliefs and how they act. In order to understand many cultures you need to understand religion. #worldgeochat
A1 #worldgeochat
Ss need to be culturally literate for the 21 century. Religion is arguably the most important and misunderstood cultural trait in the world
A1) exposure to several religions can help students see connections across humanity, sniff out basic false info regarding them and understand how religion answers question for ppl across time and space. #worldgeochat
A1: Religion is important for S's to learn about so they can understand others beliefs, and discover any common ground with other S's. They also should understand the 5 functions religions provide to see why people believe what they do. #worldgeochat
A1 Studying religion is also so important given the rise in religion-related hate crimes in the US. FBI just released a report on the increase in hate crimes from 2015 to 2016. See here for summary or visit FBI website #worldgeochathttps://t.co/GSIa3xwLdA
So very true. The importance of learning different world religions is to break down the stereotypes, the misconceptions, and the misunderstood #worldgeochat
This is just about the summary for Q1 for #worldgeochat. Learning about world religions is all about making sure we understand different perspectives and how faith influences how people connect with the world
A1: Because it is the lens through which so many people interpret and participate in the world around them. We need to understand how people think. #worldgeochat
I used to teach in a neighborhood with so many great examples. A 7th Day Adventist Church in an old synagogue, converted store fronts, the Catholic church next to our school #worldgeochat
A2: Any time Ss are trying to wrap their head around why people act the way they do or why a belief or value is important to a group of people, especially if it is different from their own perception. #worldgeochat
#worldgeochat A2 During the study of Islam. Always lots of questions. Spend the most time on this religion because of the perception Ss see via online, media.
A2: So many questions come around the misunderstanding of the Islamic religion. Students are also fascinated by Buddhism and the inner spirituality #worldgeochat
A2 Ss usually ask questions about things that they’ve seen, but don’t necessarily understand, especially customs that are outside of their own religion. #worldgeochat
A2: This week taking a look at Lucy and the Origins of early humans. Student asked: “what about God?” US Hist: There’s also colonial times, slavery and constitution for a few #worldgeochat
A2: Current events are the main reason my S's ask questions about religion, but we also have it as part of our geography curriculum in each unit because it is important to understand the cultural geography of each region. #worldgeochat
A2 You'd be shocked by how many times Ss have said things like, "I'm not a Christian, I'm a Catholic."
Many Ss don't understand what *they* are!
#worldgeochat
https://t.co/ytem4mnid2 's interactive version. Select Map -> Demographics -> Layer -> Religion. Click a country Data Source: CIA Factbook #worldgeochat
A2 I don't teach religion implicitly, the get it in sixth grade. Probably the biggest one that comes up in my class are denominations of Christianity! #worldgeochat
A2 I always thought they would ask what Muslims/Jews/Hindus/Buddhists/etc believe in, but the big one is “what’s the difference between catholic and Christian?” 😂 #worldgeochat
https://t.co/ytem4mnid2 's interactive version. Select Map -> Demographics -> Layer -> Religion. Click a country Data Source: CIA Factbook #worldgeochat
A2: One question that always arises is why woman cover their heads and sometimes their whole bodies within the Islamic communities. A different way of life for my 7th graders #worldgeochat
A2 I've found that students are often genuinely curious as to the key beliefs and ceremonies of different religions. They often have a lot of great questions. #worldgeochat
A2: Mostly during the cultural units, but often in political units. Separation of church and state is interesting considering that church is often within the state and people. #cityuponahill#worldgeochat
#worldgeochat A2 Try to help Ss understand that in any religion interpretation of it spreads across the spectrum and sometimes people try to use it to their advantage.
A2 I teach in Southern AL where there is very little religious diversity. A lot of times my class is the first objective conversation they've had about different religions. Can make things challenging but fun! #worldgeochat
A2 Ss recognize that the religious landscape of the US is changing, in part because theirs is the most religiously diverse generation in US history. It affects the world around them: culture, politics, etc. #worldgeochat
See @PRRIpoll's incredible study
https://t.co/7jC7nvuyf0
A2 questions arise when we talk Jerusalem but I’m more prepared. They arise when students stumble upon Vatican City too and they have no clue what the pope does #worldgeochat
Hear, here. I can't tell you the skepticism and surprise at this study guide, which elaborates how women in Iran can wear denim and listen to Western music. #worldgeochathttps://t.co/phZ4gnNbQ3
A3: Breaking the stereotypes and the misconceptions with 7th graders. Most Ss have an understanding of others from their parents and are set in their ways. Breaking down those misunderstandings #worldgeochat
A3: Trying to do a religion justice when explaining it. There's just too much to cover to give Ss a good understand. Deciding what makes the cut and what is best for Ss is tough. #worldgeochat
A3: not knowing enough. there are SO many aspects to various religions. thankfully, i use many of students as resources (especially my hindu and buddhist students). i have learned so much from them! #worldgeochat
#worldgeochat A3 Fear that people will say I️ am wanting them to believe in it. Always told my Ss before we started discussion of a religion, the focus is on the history.
A3) combatting narratives that have been pushed regarding certain religions and having “the right” one or way taught. Backlash about even teaching about religions. #worldgeochat
Ss lack of exposure to other religions, stereotypes they have learned from media and adults, unwilligness to try and understand religious differences #worldgeochat
A3 my biggest challenge is feeling like I’ll misrepresent something I’m not familiar with. Remember as a soph, teacher said “in a Muslim..... uh.... temple” and a Muslim student politely told him it was a mosque #worldgeochat
A3 The amazing @cchaynes3 has spent decades working with religious/civic/edu leaders from across spectrum to create best-in-class guidelines for how to tackle toughest issues re: religion in schools. If you have Qs, look here for As #worldgeochathttps://t.co/KRqL7DFPlq
A3: New to #worldgeochat first ever post. Saw some interesting topics thought I would jump in. Afzal from Toronto. Tech integration coach. I get asked about my religion so at times it may feel like I’m teaching it.
A3 Sometimes my 9th graders don't understand the degree of variation in interpretation that exists in EVERY religion - ans Radical interpretations are often connected politics #worldgeochat
A3 Where to find trustworthy sources to pass on to Ss? How do you make something so complicated and even contentious understandable to Ss? Avoiding perpetuating stereotypes #worldgeochat
Often times when you cover core beliefs of a religion a student will say shouldn't we not be talking about religion in a public school. I have to explain every year you can study religions but I as the teacher can't advocate you practice one. #worldgeochat
But religion isn't just in the past, religion is a huge influence today, don't want to send the message that it is only in history. Maybe starting with a First Amendment framework & the difference between teaching religion and teaching ABOUT religion would help #worldgeochat
A3: I'm afraid to teach it wrong, whether it be my misconception or one from a S. Religion is a heavy topic, and it can become rather touchy at times. I want S's to be receptive and not shut out the lesson I am trying to teach. #worldgeochat
Often times when you cover core beliefs of a religion a student will say shouldn't we not be talking about religion in a public school. I have to explain every year you can study religions but I as the teacher can't advocate you practice one. #worldgeochat
As an ELA teacher. . . wondering if Ss teachers have issues with parents (or students) who complain about students learning about religions that are perceived as contradicting with their family’s beliefs?
#worldgeochat
A4: I've got a few lessons that I really like but there are some concepts that I really struggle to explain b/c I can't wrap my own head around it. #worldgeochat
A4 if ss are inquiring/researching religion I don't want them to stumble across stereotypes or biased sites. Makes media literacy and website evaluation soooooooooo important. #worldgeochat
I'm not surprised. They get the message so often that they can't talk about religion in schools that any opportunity to talk about religion, even academically, could be exciting #worldgeochat
I have had parents asked to preview material I was sharing. I'm always happy to do this. I've had no parents refuse after a conversation was had explaining how this was part of our global studies curriculum and they saw the materials themselves. #worldgeochat
A4
I feel like I've got handle on Christianity, Islam, & Judaism thanks to Ss who are brave enough to share.
Still need to learn more about Buddhism & Hinduism. My knowledge base is lacking!
#worldgeochat
While the rituals might be different, faith is often common. I truly believe it is the beauty of faith and hope that can connect, prevail, and transcend. #worldgeochat#optimistToAFault
A4: I feel less confident with the nitty gritty details that 7th graders may ask about. Not just that, but where can I direct them? Least confident with my resources for religion #worldgeochat
A4 I've met a lot of teachers who don't feel confident determining whether an article about religion/a specific religion is appropriate for the classroom. I always recommend the @PluralismProj website as a first port of call. #worldgeochathttps://t.co/gFWmWMwfNj
A4 I feel very confident moderating productive group discussions, but I feel less confident in their ability to access reliable information regarding diverse religions
#worldgeochat
A4 my school is an Ell center in my district so I'm super lucky to have had several Muslim, Hindi, Jewish, ss through the years. I always pick their brains, encourage them to share perspectives. I always talk to them first to make sure they are ok with it #worldgeochat
True! The genuine curiosity is usually genuinely good-natured, too, and shows the value of a great educator creating a safe space to learn and question. This is one of my faves to introduce an oft-misunderstood concept. #worldgeochathttps://t.co/W9arggcJI6
Media literacy and website evaluation are so important for all teachers to teach. Students need instruction on how to be critical consumers! It is one of the most important skills that should be a part of every school curriculum. #worldgeochat
That's a common concern. This study from Modesto, CA found that a world religions class didn't cause students to change their beliefs or become moral relativists #worldgeochathttps://t.co/4QNG0mNOtK
A4 I think my biggest concern is oversimplifying any #religion --trying to find ways to go beyond historical context & stats to explore current practices & expression #worldgeochat
A5 Do you want well-researched, kid friendly, short, reliable, free videos about all sorts of religious topics for your classroom? Look now further. @andrewmarkhenry and Religion for Breakfast to the rescue #worldgeochathttps://t.co/LvdecT88E1
A4: Most confident teaching religion basics for the 5 major religions. Least confident when trying to explain how different sects of religions formed and what is different about them. That I have to study every time. I should study Sikhism & Jainism more too. #worldgeochat
Yes! Also having strong academic frameworks & methods for studying religion are crucial to help students be critical consumers of information on religion #worldgeochat
A5 Do you want well-researched, kid friendly, short, reliable, free videos about all sorts of religious topics for your classroom? Look now further. @andrewmarkhenry and Religion for Breakfast to the rescue #worldgeochathttps://t.co/LvdecT88E1
That's a great question! I try to be as upfront as I can be about my own lack of knowledge. Then I find myself saying things like "Most ____ believe that ___"
#worldgeochat
A5 #worldgeochat Lucky to probably live on the most diverse country and city on Earth. Any Toronto classroom looks the United Nations meeting. It’s a beautiful sight
A4 I have the basics of the top 5, I think, but my students teach me more each year. One of my students was a member of the Nation of Islam and they view things differently. #worldgeochat
#worldgeochat A5 I️ use History of the Holidays from @YouTube by History. Tying in the importance of the Holidays help Ss connect because they are familiar with the names of the Holidays.
A5 We @NewseumReligion have semester-long courses that help educators learn how to teach about religion. We also have hour-long, online PD modules launching this spring. Read more about the courses here. The courses are free this spring! #worldgeochathttps://t.co/I6YiAojXMc
A5: My resources for religion came from my years at Sharon High School. We taught a whole unit on religion- spent hours researching and pooling our knowledge as a team to create power points & lessons. It's been a while . . . #worldgeochat
I suggest we pass the mic whenever possible, a lot easier now with social media. For our Science chocolate inquiry we found a fb page run by cocoa farmers, others on twitter, happy to answer q's.
#worldgeochat@slogue89
A5 A couple of years ago we mapped out Austin’s places of worship using Google Maps/Streetview and My Maps. We found a couple of interesting clusters. Including one a little further out from our community just outside of Austin. #worldgeochat
#worldgeochat Our foreign exchange Ss have to give presentations on their country and culture. Always interesting to hear them share their religion with our Ss.
A6 with Christianity which is what the vast majority of my students know and what I know, and it’s easier to highlight differences and changes #worldgeochat
What a great project! Makes religious diversity closer to home. Historical trends of where religious communities move in a region can be fascinating too #worldgeochat
A6 Ss need to see and learn about the spatial relationship that religions have with one another and how that affects the cultural changes that are taking place. Mapping current issues as they relate to religious borders is my go-to #worldgeochat
Agreed! We discuss "umbrella" religions, such as Christianity, and how the different spokes of the umbrella are different variations and changes #worldgeochat
A6
This is a perfect INQUIRY. Let Ss form Qs about religious diversity and get them exploring! Let them Skype w/ religious leaders to have their Qs answered by REAL experts. #worldgeochat
A6 Internal diversity is why I don't go too deep on beliefs because they vary along with practices. Now the last part about them changing...open for suggestions. #worldgeochat
Ss always seem to get a kick out of the long, strange trip of the Crypto-Jews, and how the internal diversity in Judaism has more than spiritual roots. Shalom y buenos noches. #worldgeochathttps://t.co/66U7vLzmIa
A6 Some of my personal heroes on developing engaging lessons that look at internal diversity, dynamism, cultural embeddedness are the team @ReligiousLitED. John is presenting at #ncss17 this week and I'm sure would love to share lesson ideas/reading packets. #worldgeochat
A6: You can look at where a religious community moved over time and why, or how they spread out from an original region. Mormons in the US are a great example. #worldgeochat
A7 I would love to get more experts in for some PD. I could use more information on current world views from religious believers and leaders! #worldgeochat
Q6: Based on my previous post, I still have a lot to learn because I didn't know religions were changing, I thought people's perceptions of them were. I am curious to see ideas of how to explain this. #worldgeochat
I would love to hear from our 3 guest host tonight what lessons and strategies do they feel are most effective to use when teaching world religions? #worldgeochat
A7: I don't know if there is a simple solution. Religions are so complex. Is it ok to communicate to Ss that it is impossible to represent all the viewpoints and we're going just touch on some big ideas? #worldgeochat
A7
I learned more about Islam spending 3 weeks with @sethbrady9@ReligiousLitED than all the reading of textbooks.
I think lots of Ts (not just #worldgeochat Ts) need help understanding the basic ideas of world religions!
Another interesting example is how the Jewish community has moved from various part of Boston over the last few centuries. Why did they move into one neighborhood and then why and when did they move to another neighborhood? #worldgeochat
A7: My fantasy PD? Travelling around the world and experiencing the religions first hand. How can we bring those realities to the classroom? Skype, conversations/emails, developing questions, etc. #worldgeochat
A6 I provide Ss w/ at least 3 short articles about 1 issue w/in a religious tradition (e.g. how do ppl celebrate Christmas? how do ppl read the Quran? what is the sig of icons?) and then have Ss see disagreements w/in community on issues some call "core beliefs" #worldgeochat
Agreed. I think having students and teachers hear from practicing individuals would be enlightening and build bridges. Interesting to have a panel maybe too, so multiple perspectives could be heard side by side. #worldgeochat
Signing out of #worldgeochat . What an amazing group of educators discussing real relevant and frankly ever more important topics in today’s climate. I’ll be sure to join next week. Thanks for having me
A7: I like the PD options provided by Primary Source when I was a teacher in Sharon. I like the idea of inviting experts into the class or inviting students to share resources. One S brought in her Dad's album of his Hajj to share. #worldgeochat
@ecasey77 1: an understanding of 1st Amendment & difference between the academic and devotional study of religion 2: continual emphasis of internal diversity, embeddedness in culture & change over time 3: lots of examples, historic & contemporary #worldgeochat
I can't thank @KateSoules@bpmarcus and @NewseumReligion for hosting tonight and to @sethbrady9 for organizing this chat! I learned so much and will continue to learn more with all the great resources that were shared! Thank you all! #worldgeochat
As we're winding down, thank you to our guest hosts, @KateSoules@bpmarcus and @NewseumReligion! What a whirlwind of a chat, and so many ideas going through my head! Thanks to @cheffernan75 for keeping the chat going with those awesome slides! #worldgeochat
