Post 9/11 Challenges: A Study into Conceptions of Controversy and Islam

Abstract

One of the primary aims of education is assisting students in shaping their world- views through the presentation of multiple perspectives on many topics. Teachers have the responsibility to foster thought-provoking questions, insights and dialogue amongst their students. Within the context of post 9/11 education, it is rather challenging for many teachers to address controversial topics that they believe may be distastefully welcomed and invoke much discomfort amongst some students, parents and administrators. This study explores how two Religious Studies professors conceptualized controversy and the discussion of controversial topics in their religion courses. Further, notions gathered from participants were utilized to facilitate how secondary Social Studies teachers approach controversial topics, especially about religion and Islam specifically, with their students. Using a qualitative post modernist approach, participants were asked to share their perceptions of controversy and reflect on factors that perhaps influenced what they chose to address with their students.