Search Results (63)

As interactions between Eastern and Western religions increase, “interreligious dialogue (IRD)” has become more prevalent. This study investigates the evolving religious landscape of South Korea, shaped by the growing presence of “religious nones” (or simply “nones”), through the framework of IRD. Since the 1960s, IRD in South Korea has been predominantly led by Christian institutions and facilitated by experts, such as theologians and religious studies scholars. However, the rise of the nones is driving a profound shift in the dialogic paradigm. The traditional intellectual approach, which focused on identifying doctrinal similarities, is shifting toward an emphasis on practical dimensions, including personal religious experiences and the concept of salvation. In this shifting context, “religious literacy” and “meditation” are emerging as crucial points of convergence, not only for IRD but also for interactions between the religious and the nones. While the growing presence of the nones may initially lead to confusion and conflict, it has the potential, in the long run, to foster religious coexistence. South Korea serves as a notable case illustrating how IRD can open new pathways in the realm of praxis. Religious literacy enhances understanding and promotes a tolerant attitude toward the broader social relationships that religion cultivates, while meditation provides a shared platform for dialogue and engagement at the societal level. In this regard, Korea presents a particularly compelling case study, offering a critical examination of the feasibility of these possibilities. Full article

This study examines critical challenges associated with religious literacy in contemporary South Korea and educational approaches to address them. By analyzing data from the Religious Literacy Survey 2023 (n = 2022), we reveal that these paradoxical attitudes stem from a declining religious literacy, manifested as limited knowledge of religious traditions and their teachings. Amid the rise in the number of the religiously unaffiliated, our analysis indicates that this trend reflects not a rejection of religion but rather an urgent need for education to enhance religious literacy. Based on this analysis, we examine religious education curricula at Dongguk and Yonsei Universities as exemplars that not only deepen students’ understanding of specific religious traditions but also help them recognize religion’s enduring relevance in addressing contemporary societal challenges. Building on these cases, while recognizing their limitations as religiously affiliated institutions, we emphasize the need for an integrated educational approach to religious literacy—one that extends beyond specific traditions and incorporates religious studies examining various dimensions of religion itself. We further suggest the broader implementation of religious literacy education across higher education institutions. Such educational approaches provide insights into fostering social cohesion and meaningful interreligious engagement in South Korea and beyond. Full article

Adolescents’ knowledge about climate change is key to protecting the well-being of all generations and to promoting individuals’ rights and resilience. This study assesses the climate change literacy of Indonesian adolescents and its determinants. This nationwide study was conducted in 2023 in Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Eastern Indonesia. A total of 1126 adolescents aged 13–19 years were selected through multi-stage sampling. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and multinomial logistic regression. This study found that 49.7% of adolescents had poor climate change literacy. In the multivariate analysis, the significantly related factors had an odds ratio of 1.66–4.75. Climate change literacy was higher in adolescents from the West and Central Regions, from public or religious schools, and those with educated parents, than in adolescents from the Eastern Region, from private or vocational schools, and those whose parents had low education, respectively. This study suggests the need to promote equality in climate change literacy among Indonesian adolescents through formal and informal education. High-quality formal education would necessitate well-trained teachers with expertise in climate change, as well as a structured, age-appropriate curriculum. Meanwhile, informal education through another information dissemination and social media-based movements can help broaden outreach among adolescents. Full article

Research Objective: This study aims to examine the impact of religious-based family management (RBFM) on absolute poverty through two main factors: short-term vision and uncontrolled consumption among low-income families. Research Methods and Approach: This study analyzed 172 respondents (low-income families) using a quantitative approach with the Amos Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method. A questionnaire was the main instrument in this study of six regions in South Sulawesi. Findings and Research Novelty: The findings reveal that, as an “agent of change”, RBFM has a significant negative effect on short-term vision, uncontrolled consumption, and absolute poverty. These results underscore the role of integrating religious values in family management to curb excessive consumption behavior and strengthen long-term financial planning, thereby potentially breaking the cycle of poverty. The novelty of this research lies in employing Human Capital Theory (HCT) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to elucidate the role of religion in the economic dynamics of family life. Research Implications: This study provides important implications for poverty alleviation policies, particularly in developing value-based programs that integrate religious principles with financial literacy. Such interventions are expected to enhance financial management practices among low-income families and foster their economic sustainability. Full article

Vaccine hesitancy, which refers to the reluctance to be vaccinated, poses a major risk to public health in preventing infectious diseases. This hesitancy has been evident for many years, especially regarding childhood vaccines. The main factors contributing to this hesitancy include religious or personal beliefs, concerns about safety and efficacy, and desire to receive more information from healthcare providers. This literature review examines hesitancy regarding COVID-19 vaccines in different population segments in Turkey. Hesitancy rates and reasons in the general population and specific groups such as pregnant women, parents, healthcare workers and students were presented based on published research articles. Approximately half of the Turkish population declared their hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccines. A negative correlation was found between vaccine hesitancy and health literacy. The relationship between COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and religiosity was also investigated. Age is another factor affecting this vaccine hesitancy. Older age was shown to be correlated with positive attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination. Moreover, participants with positive attitudes towards other vaccines, those with chronic diseases and those with a personal history of COVID-19 were more likely to have positive perceptions of COVID-19 vaccines. Higher life satisfaction and non-smoking status were associated with a higher likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Increased scientific data on the efficacy and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines and more information from healthcare professionals would likely reduce the hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccines. Full article

The core of the cultural services of ecosystems (CESs) is the spiritual connection between humans and nature, and participatory mapping from the stakeholder perspective is an effective method for perceiving and protecting hotspot CES areas. This study used participatory mapping combined with 184 interviews and questionnaires, completed on 10 December 2023, to investigate the perceptions of CESs in Taibai Mountain National Forest Park by different stakeholder groups; spatial and correlation analyses were used to comparatively analyze the characteristics of the differences in the perceptions of CESs among different stakeholders, the influencing factors, and their spatial distribution patterns. The results show that (1) there is a positive correlation between the literacy level of external stakeholders and the perception of CESs, and there is no significant difference between the differences in the other demographic characteristics of stakeholders (gender, age, occupation, and literacy level) in the perception of CESs. (2) Different stakeholders have convergent perceptions of spiritual and religious values, cultural heritage values, educational values, and inspirational values, whereas there are greater differences in the perceptions of aesthetic values, ecological and recreational values, and local identity values. (3) Different stakeholders of the same CES are strongly correlated, and there is no correlation between spiritual and religious values and other values and no correlation between recreational and ecotourism values and educational and cultural heritage values; however, there is a correlation between all other subcultural services. It is important to fully identify and consider the characteristics of the differences in the perceptions of different stakeholders in CESs to enhance the regional planning and scenic area service function in the study area. Full article

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and plays a significant role in cervical, penile, anal, vaginal, vulvar, and oropharyngeal cancers as well as non-cancerous genital warts and genital dysplasia. In the United States, there are approximately 46,000 new HPV-related cancers a year. There is an effective vaccine to prevent over 90% of these cancers and other HPV-related diseases; however, those that are aged 18–26 have the lowest vaccine rates among eligible age groups. The objective of this study was to examine student knowledge and perceptions about HPV vaccine hesitancy in university students and their notions of barriers and facilitators for HPV vaccine uptake. We aimed to identify components for an evidence-based community-oriented educational intervention to increase HPV vaccination uptake. The researchers recorded 10 focus groups featuring students from a Northeastern United States university, aged 18–26, which were analyzed using grounded theory and inductive thematic analysis to identify recurring themes. The participants mentioned many barriers and facilitators for attaining the HPV vaccine, with health literacy being prominent for both. They demonstrated some knowledge of what HPV is and ways to avoid it. They also expressed a desire for further information and felt that the way in which this information is presented to the public is vital for increasing vaccine uptake and designing future interventions. In order to increase HPV vaccination rates in the general population and overcome barriers such as family, religious, and cultural values, it is important to emphasize the link between HPV and cancer and its preventative benefits. Full article

This article explores Quebec’s recent transition from the “Ethics and Religious Culture” (ERC) program to the “Culture and Citizenship in Quebec” (CCQ) program, emphasizing the role of religious literacy in secular societies. We investigate the rationale behind the shift, and examine the ERC’s focus on fostering understanding of diverse religious and ethical perspectives as well as CCQ’s broader mandate to integrate cultural and civic education and its aim at the development of a shared and common public Quebecois culture. The case study highlights the pedagogical and societal implications of this change, discussing how the CCQ program aims to enhance civic engagement, cultural awareness, and social cohesion. Furthermore, the article identifies opportunities for educators to address pressing global challenges, such as polarization, reconciliation, and the climate crisis, within the new curriculum framework. By promoting critical thinking, inclusivity, and active citizenship, fostering religious literacy in such programs presents a unique opportunity for educators and youth to contribute to a more resilient and harmonious society. Full article

The Circassian language is the heritage language (HL) of a small minority group in Israel. Since its classification as an endangered language around the globe, the focus has been put on effective maintenance programs. Changes in education methods within Circassian communities were inevitable. In Israel, the Circassian Maintenance Program is crucial in primary schools, where formal literacy instruction in the Circassian language begins in fifth grade. This study examined the agentic role of the Circassian literacy teacher in engaging students in learning their heritage language and its maintenance, as expressed in her attitudes, beliefs and knowledge and her classroom strategies. This three-month-long ethnographic data collection was conducted at the teacher’s study centre “Nal” (i.e., a treasure in Circassian). Data was gathered through classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with a Circassian HL teacher to understand her attitudes, beliefs and knowledge and to identify strategies to encourage student engagement in HL learning. In general, the teacher showed expertise in the HL and authentic use of it, as well as cultural and religious competence, adaptability, and flexibility. In addition, she encouraged children’s agency and autonomy and provided individualised support, integration of technology and reflective practice. The results indicated that a sense of identity, unity and belonging to the community are all held together by the pillar of HL knowledge. By engaging her students in translanguaging practices, the teacher promoted their awareness of language patterns, vocabulary and grammar in both Circassian and other languages of their wide linguistic repertoire (Hebrew, Arabic and English). Full article

Vaccination is a critical public health measure for preventing infectious diseases, but its acceptance varies globally, influenced by factors like vaccine hesitancy. This study examines attitudes and vaccination literacy among Kazakh students, providing insights into global immunization strategies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 3142 students from various Kazakh universities. The HLS19-VAC instrument assessed vaccination literacy, while additional questions evaluated beliefs and attitudes toward vaccines. Data were analyzed to determine associations between vaccine-related beliefs and literacy. The mean vaccination literacy score was 84.74. Most students agreed on the importance (83.4%), safety (79.1%), effectiveness (80.9%), and religious compatibility (77.8%) of vaccines. Positive beliefs significantly correlated with higher literacy scores. Past vaccination behavior, age, gender, and location showed varied associations, with past vaccination status and higher age showing a positive correlation. Positive beliefs about vaccinations were strongly associated with higher vaccination literacy among Kazakh students. Educational interventions that reinforce positive beliefs may improve vaccination literacy and increase vaccination rates. This study underscores the importance of understanding vaccination attitudes to enhance public health strategies in middle-income countries. Full article

This study explores which women participate in community-based adaptation (CBA) from an intersectional perspective. This study followed in-depth interviews (IDIs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) methods for data collection in Latachapli, Bangladesh. It explores women from different ethnic and religious identities participating in community-based adaptation (CBA) activities. The diversity among women leads to varying levels of participation. Three main areas—sense of insecurity, support from family members, and women’s literacy—and the NGO’s administrative bias have been seen to influence different levels of women’s participation in CBA. All these findings suggest that women’s intersectional challenges when participating in activities must be considered. The problem with the NGOs that implement the CBA activities is that they focus on marginalized communities (Rakhine) and women in general without taking into consideration the cultural, religious, and historical barriers that these different women face. Full article

Religion in Europe has been undergoing two fundamental changes in the past four decades. As a side effect of secularization, religious fields have been pluralizing. On the other hand, religions themselves have taken a qualitative shift towards lived, material characteristics. Focusing exclusively on the diversification of European religious fields, we are interested in the concept of religious literacy as a tool for competent engagement in contemporary religious plural societies. To better understand the role of public media in fostering religious literacy, we offer an analysis of the public broadcaster’s coverage of smaller religious communities in Slovenia. Focusing particularly on Muslims as the largest religious minority in Slovenia, we provide an analysis of 245 episodes, consisting of 540 items, in the 2015–2020 period. We show that the coverage given to smaller religious communities is unevenly spread amongst the communities, with disproportional airtime given to Christian churches and communities. Furthermore, we pinpoint the key qualitative difference in portrayals of Slovenian Muslims and non-Catholic Christians, explaining how the process of racialized Islamophobia may continue beyond explicit hate speech. In conclusion we set out limitations of our study and provide guidelines for future research. Full article

While there has been growing scholarly interest in the role of religious literacy in K-12 teacher education, scholarship on how preservice teachers understand religious literacy as an aim of social justice-oriented education remains limited. This empirical case study of one teacher education program in a Canadian university examines the perspectives of preservice teachers and how they view critical religious literacy (CRL) as a means of addressing the potential harms of religious illiteracy. Using empirical data collected in personal interviews and focus groups, this qualitative case study employed philosophical analysis centered on a theoretical framework that includes the concept of epistemic injustice. The data show that preservice educators feel unprepared to engage with religiously diverse students, to navigate issues related to religious diversity, or to respond to the potential epistemic harms of religious illiteracy, such as exclusion, discrimination, or polarization. As such, this paper contends that to reduce the potential epistemic injustices related to religious illiteracy in their programs and in K-12 classrooms, teacher educators ought to include CRL as an educational aim in preservice teacher education. Full article

The purpose of this paper is to provide curriculum support to religious educators working in Catholic schools. The paper provides a practical response to research advocating serious attention be given to religious educators because they are at the “coalface” of Catholic education, increasingly confronted by content and policy decisions, the diverse values and needs of their students, and other competing cultural and social challenges. Religious educators play a significant role in the evangelising mission of the Catholic Church as interpreters of Scripture and Tradition and can positively or negatively influence the quality of their students’ learning and its application. Entitled RECALL, the support offered to religious educators in this paper is research-led and utilises educational, standards-based principles. It is a community-minded approach that aims to build religious literacy and deepen the religious educators’ awareness and connections to the legacy of the Catholic Faith Tradition. The desired outcome is to inspire evidence-based conversations encompassing faith and reason, the perceived value and reality of the identity and mission of the Catholic Church, and its impact on Catholic culture and education. Intended to enhance rather than replace existing professional formation, the approach has structures, pedagogical processes, and practices that draw from a set of overarching theoretical considerations. Furthermore, the approach employs three guiding questions for categorising and analysing Catholic content. The questions are: (i) “Who are we as Catholics and what is our mission?” (ii) “What do we believe?” and (iii) “How do we practice?” The proposed curriculum support to religious educators may foster a culture of learning in Religious Education that is focused on improving and progressing the quality of educational outcomes for students. The premise is that if religious educators are supported to engage with the great Gospel narrative, their students may do the same. Full article

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its enablers shape community uptake of non-covid vaccines such as the oral cholera vaccine (OCV) in the post-COVID-19 era. This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its drivers on OCV hesitancy in a cholera-endemic region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. We conducted a community-based survey in Bukavu. The survey included demographics, intention to take OCV and COVID-19 vaccines, reasons for COVID-19 hesitancy, and thoughts and feelings about COVID-19 vaccines. Poisson regression analyses were performed. Of the 1708 respondents, 84.66% and 77.57% were hesitant to OCV alone and to both OCV and COVID-19, respectively. Hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccines rose OCV hesitancy by 12% (crude prevalence ratio, [cPR] = 1.12, 95%CI [1.03–1.21]). Independent predictors of OCV hesitancy were living in a semi-urban area (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.10, 95%CI [1.03–1.12]), religious refusal of vaccines (aPR = 1.06, 95%CI [1.02–1.12]), concerns about vaccine safety (aPR = 1.05, 95%CI [1.01–1.11]) and adverse effects (aPR = 1.06, 95%CI [1.01–1.12]), as well as poor vaccine literacy (aPR = 1.07, 95%CI [1.01–1.14]). Interestingly, the belief in COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness reduced OCV hesitancy by 24% (aPR = 0.76, 95%CI [0.62–0.93]). COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its drivers exhibited a significant domino effect on OCV uptake. Addressing vaccine hesitancy through community-based health literacy and trust-building interventions would likely improve the introduction of novel non-COVID-19 vaccines in the post-COVID-19 era. Full article