Overview
Religious Studies 206 has not been designed either to defend or to criticize Islam, nor is it meant to convince students of the validity of any religious beliefs at the expense of others. The academic study of religion is in part about situating religious traditions in their socio-historical and socioeconomic contexts so that we can better understand the evolution and internal diversity of religious systems over a long period of time. Doing this makes it possible to develop a sensitivity to, and understanding of, the beliefs of religious practitioners without abandoning the analytical and critical methodology on which the study of religion is founded. The goal of Religious Studies 206, then, is to provide students with a basic conception of Islam that will help them to understand the historical, ritual, theological, and political manifestations of Islam and the diversity of voices and opinions within this religious tradition.
Learning outcomes
After completing this course, students should be able to
- outline the historical development of Islam and its spread across the globe.
- give an overview of the key beliefs and ideas that serve as the basis for the religious worldview of Islam.
- describe the multiplicity of theological voices in Islam as represented by Shi’a Islam and Sufism.
- outline different Islamic responses to modernity and differing views about the role of women in Islam.
- describe the global challenges that Muslims have faced in a post-9/11 world.
Evaluation
To receive credit for Religious Studies 206, students must complete and submit all of the assignments and write the final exam. Students must achieve a minimum grade of D (50 percent) on the final exam and an overall grade of at least D (50 percent) for the course.
| Activity | Weight |
| Assignment 1: AU Library Catalogue Research | 10% |
| Assignment 2: Review of the Movie The Message | 15% |
| Assignment 3: Short Essay | 15% |
| Assignment 4: Slide Presentation | 20% |
| Final Examination | 40% |
| Total | 100% |
The final examination for this course must be requested in advance and written under the supervision of an AU-approved exam invigilator. Invigilators include either ProctorU or an approved in-person invigilation centre that can accommodate online exams. Students are responsible for payment of any invigilation fees. Information on exam request deadlines, invigilators, and other exam-related questions, can be found at the Exams and grades section of the Calendar.
Materials
Digital course materials
Links to the following course materials will be made available in the course:
Esposito, John L. Islam: The Straight Path. 5th ed. Oxford University Press, 2016.
Other Material
The course materials include a Study Guide, online readings, and a movie available on YouTube with closed captions.