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THL473 Teaching Religious Ethics (8)

Abstract

This subject provides students with advanced knowledge of major ethical theories, including their relationship with and impact on religion, an understanding of the significant debates in contemporary ethics, and the opportunity to develop skills in ethical reasoning suitable for use in an educational setting. The subject deploys praxis methodologies to engage the student in the reflective practice of ethics and also to assist the student to critique their own context. In addition, it links the theory and practice of the 'good life' to personal development and spiritual growth within the school curriculum.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 2
OnlineCanberra Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL473
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

Students are assumed to have completed all the core units for the Master of Arts (Religious and Values Education) before enrolling in this subject.

Enrolment restrictions

Master of Arts (Religious and Values Education)
Graduate Diploma of Religious and Values Education
Master of Ministry - Restricted Elective

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the contemporary context of ethical reasoning in a pluralist society
  • be able to articulate and discuss the role of freedom, responsibility and conscience in morality
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the specific role of religious perspectives in relation to moral questions
  • be able to demonstrate skills in the processes of ethical reasoning
  • be able to apply this understanding to the concrete task of ethical reasoning
  • be able to develop a unit of study on the ethics strand
  • be able to discuss critically the roots of religious ethical perspectives

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • the major theories of ethics: deontology, teleology, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, personalism
  • the place of ethical theories in a pluralist society
  • the nature and role of religious perspectives in ethics
  • ethical reasoning in relation to specific moral issues, specific examples include the use of scriptural texts in religious ethics and the application of natural law by religious groups
  • the use of a praxis methodology in teaching ethics and the preparation of ethics units
  • assessment and use of a 5-strand approach to ethics

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The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.