Contextual and pedagogical considerations in teaching for forgiveness in the Arab world |
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| Authors: | Ilham Nasser Mohammed Abu-Nimer Ola Mahmoud |
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| Institution: | 1. College of Education and Human Development, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USAinasser@gmu.edu;3. School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, USA;4. College of Education and Human Development, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA |
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| Abstract: | This study was conducted among Arab teachers in four countries in the Middle East (Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Palestine) to examine their views and methods on teaching for forgiveness in their classrooms. A total of 87 teachers in K-12 classrooms participated in semi-structured interviews as part of a larger study on teaching for forgiveness in the region. Thematic analyses of interviews suggested that teachers created opportunities to model and teach forgiveness as part of their civics education curriculum. They also expressed eagerness for instructional guidance and curriculum materials to systematically teach forgiveness in schools. The strength of religion and historical religious figures as positive sources for teaching forgiveness was also evident. Findings highlight the need to integrate education for peace and forgiveness in the education system, especially as a result of recent political developments in the Middle East, and to provide methods to assist teachers to do so in their classrooms. |
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| Keywords: | forgiveness pedagogy teachers’ knowledge and skills Middle East school teachers |
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