Religion and Schooling in Open Society: A Framework for Informed Dialogue

Religion and Schooling in Open Society: A Framework for Informed Dialogue, a reference paper by Zdenko Kodelja and Terrice Bassler, offers an outline of dialogue on the topic orientated mainly, though not exclusively, toward a European context. The paper is structured around issues that policymakers face, such as:

• What are the terms and concepts most relevant to understanding "religion and schooling"?
• What is the relationship among individual rights, religion, and schooling in an open, democratic, pluralist society?
• Is there an "international convention" or "European standard" on religion and schooling in an open society?
• Should teaching about religions be delivered in schools? If so, why, what, and how?
• What is the appropriate role of the state (and its relation to religious institutions) with respect to religion and schooling in an open society?

Religion and Schooling in Open Society includes information on approaches to religious education in mainly European countries and a set of short case studies. It is intended as a resource for policymakers who have little prior experience with the issue or comparative information on religion and schooling. Information herein may also serve as a resource for independent education policy centers and others seeking informed, comparative dialogue and a basis for decision-making on religion and schooling in open society.

The paper is available for download hard copies are also available from osep-see@zavod-irc.si.