The article is devoted to applying the method of “the centre of work“ into teaching religion to mentally handicapped children. The research aims at presenting theoretical and practical usefulness of the method, introduced by M. Grzegorzewska into global teaching, in teaching religion actively to mentally handicapped pupils. The method of “the centre of work“ emerged from the method of “the centre of interest” by O. Decroly and it is regarded as the best method to work with the mentally handicapped learner as it is adjusted to his developmental needs, physical and psychical abilities. The method aims at the optimal, versatile psychophysical development of the child in modern conditions. It seems beneficial to add spiritual development of the learner into its assumptions. The author of the article is creatively looking for new teaching materials and new means of communication to motivate children to participate actively in religion lessons.
This article deals with the characteristics of religion teaching to mentally handicapped pupils. This kind of teaching evolves from personal reception and experience of the words of Jesus: “Come, you whom my Father has blessed, take as your heritage the kingdom prepared for you since the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you made me welcome, lacking clothes and you clothed me, sick and you visited me, in prison and you came to see me.” (Mt 25,34-36) To go and teach the Good News to those who need it most – this is the shortest definition of special religion teaching. With such understanding of religion teaching one can make all the efforts that are connected with teaching pupils with special educational needs and also be involved in various actions to satisfy the needs of these pupils. This article shows the main objectives, aims and methods used in special religion teaching as well as it characterizes the features of a religion teacher of pupils with special educational needs. There are also the conditions of special religion teaching presented. The Church admits that people who are mentally or physically handicapped are specially loved by Jesus Christ. To them God sends religion teachers to make them grow in sainthood.
JavaScript is turned off in your web browser. Turn it on to take full advantage of this site, then refresh the page.