Reflections on the ISS- Scriptures at Their Root

Posted on by Richard Newton

The Institute for Signifying Scriptures is an independent research organization focused on investigating the dynamics associated with "scriptures." The conversation takes serious the category's development and deployment in Western cultural politics, working to surface the very assumptions that it belays. Founded by Vincent L. Wimbush, the collaborative enterprise  has as its mission the "excavation of … Continue reading Reflections on the ISS- Scriptures at Their Root

Wabash Center for Teaching & Learning in Religion & Theology

Posted on by Richard Newton

The Wabash Center is a premier space for professional development for educators in Religious Studies and Theology. Through workshops, consultations, a journal, and a number of social media projects, the center has played a substantial  part in the development of best practices and best practitioners. At the 2015 Reception for New Teachers, I was invited … Continue reading Wabash Center for Teaching & Learning in Religion & Theology

Religious Studies…It’s Complicating!

Posted on by Richard Newton

To work in religious studies is to constantly ask, "What are we talking about again?..Who's doing what?...How does that work?" There's been a lot of cool stuff in the news showcasing what many of us think the discipline is about. Kate Blanchard of Alma College shares the type of issues that keep us up at … Continue reading Religious Studies…It’s Complicating!

Inside the Scholar’s Studio with #SBLAAR14 Bingo

Posted on by Richard Newton

Like all conferences of the elite, the annual meetings of the American Academy of Religion and the Society of Biblical Literature are theater. There's a level of make-believe that goes into transitioning from our quotidian concerns to those befitting the sacred gathering. The #sblaar14 Twitter feed bears witness to participants changing in and out of … Continue reading Inside the Scholar’s Studio with #SBLAAR14 Bingo

“Gradating” Understanding in the Religious Studies Classroom

Posted on by Richard Newton

The idea is to create an environment where students are encouraged to learn from their mistakes and to get help when they can't figure something out on their own.