Efficiency perceptions of religious culture and ethics teachers regarding 21st century skills

Adapting oneself to the age of information and technology is possible by acquiring some basic skills. Commonly referred to as 21st century skills, these skills play an important role in individuals' being active in learning and contributing to the society in which they live. It is crucial that we raise individuals who can not only use information properly but also can analyse and synthesize it. Among the skills that the Ministry of National Education follows closely are skills such as critical thinking and creativity, communication and media literacy, socio-cultural skills and leadership. In Türkiye, 21st century skills have been an under-researched topic of investigation in the field of religious culture and ethics (RCE). The present study is unique in that it is the first qualitative study in this area of research. The purpose of the study is to investigate the competencies of RCE teachers in 21st century skills. During the academic year 2023-2024, 28 RCE teachers were selected as the sample of the study, and the data were analysed using qualitative methods. The results of the study indicated that the RCE teachers had a superficial knowledge of 21st century skills. In the first section of the study, the conceptual framework was established, and students, teachers, learning environments and curricula were discussed with reference to 21st century skills. The second part of the study presents the analysis of the findings and makes an overall evaluation, along with drawing conclusions and making recommendations, based on the results of the study. The results of the study revealed that RCE teachers were poorly informed about 21st century skills. Offering courses to these teachers through pre-service and in-service training can help them acquire these skills. Studies to be conducted on the same subject in certain periods could help compare the course of development. KEYWORDS: Religion, Information Communication Technologies, Education, Religious Culture and Ethics Teachers, 21st Century Skills