An Investigation of Interreligious Education in Public Schools

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of the changes in inclusive education found in Ontario’s curricula, particularly in the Social Studies, History and Geography Grades 1-8 documents. The study explores the topic of interreligious education, and examines the gaps between the expectations of religious knowledge in elementary and secondary school. The findings suggest that the gaps are causing a division between the two levels of schooling. The implications of these findings are that there is a lack of religious understanding in schools, which impacts students, especially at the secondary level. Both elementary and secondary educators who participated in this study agree that interreligious education is necessary and relevant in elementary school. This study explores how to best incorporate interreligious education in public schools so this area can be properly addressed and cultivated in secondary school and beyond.