Religions education in Denmark

In this thesis study, the religious education in primary schools in Denmark, the transformation that primary education has undergone in historical processes, and the methods applied in current religious education, along with their effects, have been examined. Utilizing qualitative research methods, the current literature on general education and religious education in Denmark has been reviewed, and laws and regulations issued by the Ministry of Education have been analyzed. The study begins by providing brief information about the country's demographic structure, family structure, religious composition, and the church. Subsequent sections focus on the historical development of primary schools in Denmark, their current status, the changes and transformations in religious education throughout history, the legal basis, objectives, content, and methods of religious education. Additionally, the inclusion of Islam in the Christian Studies course is also addressed. The education of religious education teachers is discussed, and their training in education faculties is identified. Due to its significant role in shaping general education, religious education has contributed to the advancement of Danish society. It continues its historical responsibility through identity and culture. In Denmark, religious education, despite having different names, structures, and objectives throughout its historical development, is currently compulsory in all classes of primary education. However, the priority in teaching is given to the Evangelical Lutheran Christian doctrine. This is due to concerns about defending the nation-state and preserving national identity. Christianity remains a decisive and distinctive factor for the unity, national identity, and culture of Danish society, both in the past and present, playing a serious role in shaping the citizenship and national identity policies of the state. Nevertheless, within the framework of the constitution and democratic freedoms, parents can choose to exempt their children from religious education by notifying the school administration at the beginning of the school year. Despite becoming non-denominational with the education law enacted in 1975, the religious education in the country continues to be predominantly influenced by the Evangelical Lutheran Christian understanding, which is the majority belief. Information about the Islamic religion, ranked second after Christianity, is only provided in the 8th and 9th grades along with other major world religions. Since the publication of the new curriculum booklet in 2019, the aim of religious education has been to provide students with a nuanced understanding of religious phenomena by incorporating both scientific and theological as well as ethical and philosophical perspectives. This study is important in demonstrating how the historical intertwining of general education and religious education in Denmark has positively influenced the present.