What is reflexivity? A scoping review of reflexivity and related concepts in Religious Education

Abstract

Reflexivity has become a key concept in RE. It plays a vital role in the interpretive approach and the broader contexts of hermeneutics, anthropology, and research methodology. Moreover, reflexivity is closely related to other terms like self-awareness and self-reflection. How can we conceptualise reflexivity and these related concepts? What are the possible purposes of reflexivity in RE, and how is it facilitated? To answer these questions, we have conducted a thorough scoping review of 62 peer-reviewed articles in English. We identified literature from a broad range of contexts through a comprehensive search. The result is a nuanced classification of the conceptualisations, purposes, and practices we identified in a rich and highly heterogeneous body of literature. We have made this result available in Supplementary material to support future research. Our mapping indicates the need for conceptual clarity and consistent use of reflexivity and related concepts.