Module THEO1131: STUDY OF RELIGIONS

Department: THEOLOGY AND RELIGION

THEO1131: STUDY OF RELIGIONS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To outline established approaches to the study of religion.
• To introduce the elements of belief and practice of major religions.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of related areas at level 2.

Content

• This module sets out to provide an approach to the study of religions in two, complementary ways. First, we explore a variety of methods used in religious studies, including the anthropology, sociology, psychology and history of religions. Second, we consider the key beliefs and practices of the major world religions.

Learning Outcomes

• A knowledge of the beliefs and practices of selected religions.
• A knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with the study of religions, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of that area of study.

• Basic competence in the methodological analysis of religions.

• Skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Formative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One essay, 3000 words. No collection

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University