Religious Education Faces the Challenge of Religious Plurality: A Qualitative-Empirical Study in Vienna

In Europe RE in schools is predominantly organised denominationally. Growing religious plurality in particular is increasingly presenting a challenge for this organisational model. The question of how RE should be organised is currently the subject of controversial debate within the field of religious education studies. Is an alternative format even thinkable for those who hold responsibility for RE in schools? This study dedicates itself to Vienna, which like other European cities, is characterised by a high degree of religious plurality. The study employs a qualitative-empirical approach, in order to take a close look at the discourse around RE within two schools for upper secondary education, where it is coming up against its organisational limits. This study analyses group discussions with RE teachers and with members of the school community committee (an elected body consisting of teacher, pupil and parent representatives, as well as the head of school). Research into these often implicit attitudes towards religion and RE is vital for the development of future oriented forms of RE. This study consequently offers a valuable contribution to context sensitive religious education studies.