The Use of Cambridge Scriptural Reasoning (CSR) Texts for Inter-Faith Dialogue in Classroom: Some Pedagogical Proposals

Abstract

Recent developments in Indonesian society show an alarming growth of religious intolerance. The paper proposes that one of ways that can contribute to remedy the situation is an Inter-faith dialogue in classroom using Cambridge Scriptural Reasoning (CSR) texts. The texts provide a primary source for understanding fundamental beliefs and focus on less controversial issues. Acknowledging the sensitivity of handling religious texts, the paper reports an exploration of the possibility and challenges of doing interfaith dialogues in a classroom using CSR texts. Based on several class experiments and qualitative interviews of the participants, the approach results in positive experience of the participants. The paper, thus, recommends three pedagogical principles. The use of the texts must have the consent of all students; the conclusion of textual meaning gives a prominent authority to the insights of its adherent; and at the end of each session, students from other religions provide testimonial on changed perception through the dialogue. As such, the paper recommends the use of CSR texts in a course on religion, particularly in Christian universities in Indonesia, as a contribution to mutual understanding and religious harmony.