Evaluation of religious course books in the early years of Turkish republic in terms of religious education policies

This study was shaped by considering of Republic Child's Religious Book which was published by the government in 1928 to be taught as the religious textbook in certain classes of primary and village schools. Techniques, languages, methods and topics were discussed. The political impact of the period on the preferred topics in the examined books was investigated. The approach to teaching the subjects, the selection of materials, the intended goals and the impact of the political preferences on religious education were discussed in the period of time. The phases of religious education were tried to analyze by taking into account the first period of the Republic. It is aimed to recognize the first steps of the religious education adventure of the Republic of Turkiye from past to future and to support the transfer of the cumulative educational heritage to the future. In addition, determining the impact of the political views of the government at that period on shaping the content of the religious education curriculum at that period was aimed. The books written by Abdülbaki Gölpınarlı, which were taught as religion textbooks in the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades, were tried to be examined in terms of religious education, based on the first editions published in Ottoman language. Within the context of this study, rational education is included in religious education courses in order for children to be able to manage their future correctly and meaningfully in the post-war environment, to understand and experience the reforms planned and implemented by the governments of the period, to reach the desired citizen profile and to make economic moves that will develop the country in agriculture, crafts and trade. It has been seen that it is based on a secular and nationalist basis. Within the scope of this study, it was emphasized that religious education is one of the building blocks for ability of children to accurately and meaningfully interpret about their current situation, and what they will do in the future because character and personality are guided by internal dynamics. Providing religious education in schools at an early age is an important effort and element to ensure that character education is systematic, continuous and progressive. The aim of examining the first period of the Republic, which affected the later years in terms of mentality and attitude, is to shed light on religious education activities in the coming years.