Contributos educativos da disciplina de educação moral e religiosa católica

: um estudo de caso com alunos do nono ano

Abstract

In a dynamic and pluralistic society, cooperation in school environment is essential for integral developments of human person. It is in this context that the subject Catholic Moral and Religious Education seeks to make its contribution in the Portuguese curriculum. This case study of the subject's educational contributions draws on the perceptions of 34 ninth grade students (14–15 years) and their teacher. The data were collected by means of a descriptive survey, an open questionnaire and focus groups with students, and a subsequent interview with their teacher. Data were collected on participants' perceptions across four discrete dimensions: the value of human life at the intrapersonal level, the value of human life in interpersonal relationships, one's relationship with spirituality and finally, life purpose. The study highlights six important findings: the manner in which students' life experiences shape their perceptions; the transversal nature of the concept of "other" across each of the four dimensions considered; that experiences of significant learning are shared with others; the personal and social intentionality of religiosity; that religiosity is a dimension of culture; the importance of adapting to one's circumstances and reevaluating choices as life progresses. The data revealed that the subject Catholic Moral and Religious Education contributed to the personal reflection of students on the value and dignity of human life. Knowledge and respect for the other proved to be a social and multicultural experience for these students. The subject facilitated reflective experience on spiritual values and cultural learning based on religiosity. It also enabled students to design and adapt their choices throughout life. Finally, selected implications of this study for the role and configuration of the subject in the national curriculum, the training of teachers and the involvement of parents/guardians are proffered.

Date of Award	27 Sept 2021
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Luísa Mota Ribeiro (Supervisor)