The Spiritual Experience of Students in Religious Education Learning: An Exploration of Challenges and Expectations in Secondary School Religious Education

Abstract

The field of religious education in secondary schools has long been a topic of interest, particularly regarding how spiritual experiences are integrated into classroom learning. However, there is limited understanding of how students perceive and engage with the spiritual dimensions of religious education, especially in a way that is meaningful to their everyday lives. Despite the significant role of religious education in character development, the gap remains in understanding how students' personal spiritual experiences align with the pedagogical methods used in schools. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of students in religious education, using a phenomenological approach to understand how they experience and make sense of spirituality within the educational context. The research question guiding this study is: How do secondary school students perceive and engage with the spiritual dimensions of religious education, and how does this influence their personal spirituality? Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 secondary school students, revealing that 70% of students feel disconnected from the material taught in religious education, desiring a more practical and relatable approach. The findings highlight the need for pedagogical strategies that not only address theoretical knowledge but also engage students in personal reflections on spirituality, offering deeper meaning and relevance in their learning experiences. These insights have implications for future research on pedagogical models in religious education, advocating for a more holistic, student-centered approach.