Subjects

Modules and Specialisations

MPHC509 CURRICULUM AND VALUES IN EDUCATION

The purpose of this module is to acquaint school leadership with the developing mind of various faith-based perspectives (particularly Catholic, but not exclusively so) in relation to faith-based schools and education in general. It also seeks to inspire participation in the ongoing dialogue between educational policies of faith communities and the State.

Some of the themes to be addressed:

• Philosophy of curriculum,
• Curriculum in a multi-faith context,
• Curriculum in a multicultural context,
• Values and outcomes-based education.

MPHC508 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES ON EDUCATION

The primary aim of this module is to provide those in leadership positions in faith-based schools with a fresh understanding of the heritage that is theirs to preserve and develop in a rapidly changing world. It is also emphasizes the ministerial aspect of the education of youth. The module also engages the following themes:

• A general survey of the history of faith-based schools in the African context, with the focus on Christian tradition, their impact on education in both the academic and religious spheres, and the contribution of such schools in the religious, social and political spheres,
• A study of the Gospel values as the biblical foundation of Catholic/Christian education in faith-based schools,
• Educational polices of the Catholic or other Christian churches: an in-depth study of relevant documents relating to Catholic/Christian education issued by the Vatican, SACBC or other bodies, with special emphasis on the ways in which Gospel values can be taught and put into practice,
• The ways in which a Christian ethos and environment may be built up, promoted and strengthened, serving as a strong spiritual and moral yardstick and inspiration for the entire school community. It also discusses necessary guidelines to be followed which ensure that a school maintains its Christian ethos,
• Studies of specific Catholic Christian religious communities, their schools, charisms and foundations in Southern Africa.