Religion and Teaching

Anderson (University of Colorado) considers some of the complex questions that all teachers face in their interactions with students, parents, administrators, and fellow teachers when religious beliefs surface in the classroom. Part I contains five case studies dealing with different aspects of religion in public education. Each case is centered on conversations among teachers, administrators, and others contending over alternative actions that could be taken in a school context. Part II presents three different "public arguments," or overall viewpoints, which each provide a coherent approach to the issues raised in the five cases. Finally Part III provides concluding thoughts about the issues from the author's perspective, as well as proposed reflection activities. The book is part of a series intended to help pre-service and in-service teachers reflect on their profession, their teaching, and their experiences. Annotation c2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Ronald Anderson is professor of education, University of Colorado at Boulder.