Assessment

Essay 100%

Module Aims

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the dynamic of Christian moral reflection and action. It aims to facilitate students explore the specific features of Christian morality, identify the primary principles moving moral discourse, and employ a Christian perspective in deliberation towards action. By relating morality to the mature integration of the person, the course will draw out specific connections to the moral and spiritual development of the child. It seeks to encourage a respectful exploration of the Christian tradition and promote thoughtful reflection on the role of morality in personal and societal contexts. Through engaging discussions, readings, and practical applications, students will develop a nuanced appreciation for Christian moral values and their implications for a contemporary school and wider society.

Indicative Syllabus

1. Listening to our desire: On flourishing
2. Fulfilling our desire: On integral human fulfilment and education
3. Responding in action: On character and moral development
4. Listening to the Teacher: On Christian discipleship
5. Listening to the Word: On sacred scripture and morality
6. Listening to reason: On moral norms
7. Listening with integrity: On conscience
8. Being tone-deaf: On original and personal sin
9. Listening again with others: On grace and community
10. Helping others to listen: On Education as Ministry/Service

Learning Outcomes

• — MIMLO01: Demonstrate a foundational understanding of the Christian moral life, including its sources in human experience and revelation.
• — MIMLO02: Identify stages of moral development and modes of character formation of children, with particular regard to the virtues and values of a Catholic ethos and promotion the holistic development of children.
• — MIMLO03: Critically engage in ethical reflection, by way of case-studies, enabling learners to articulate key moral principles, particularly within the context of primary school education.
• — MIMLO04: Show sensitivity to moral limitations and failures of individuals and societies.
• — MIMLO05: Recognise the role and value of the relationships and the communities in which a child is embedded.
• — MIMLO06: Engage in reflective practices, enabling learners to critically evaluate the effectiveness of their pedagogy, and so adapt their approaches to better meet the moral and spiritual needs of their students.

Bibliography

• — Catechism of the Catholic Church (Dublin: Veritas, 1994) - Part III: Life in Christ
• — Bretzke, James T. A Morally Complex World: Engaging Contemporary Moral Theology. Collegeville, 2004.
• — Hannon, Patrick. Moral Decision Making. Dublin: Veritas, 2005.
• — _____________. Moral Theology: A Reader. Dublin: Veritas, 2006.
• — Harington, Daniel. What is Morality? Dublin: Columba Press, 1996.
• — Gula, Richard M. Reason Informed by Faith. Mahweh: Paulist Press, 1989.
• — Mattison, William C. Introducing Moral Theology: True Happiness and the Virtues. Grand Rapids: Brazos Press, 2008.
• — Matzko McCarthy, David and Therese Lysaught, eds. Gathered for the Journey: An Introduction to Catholic Moral Theology. London: SCM Press, 2007.
• — Waddell, Paul J. Happiness and the Christian Moral Life: An Introduction to Christian Ethics. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2008.