ATHENS, Ohio -- Twenty Ohio teachers will have the opportunity to learn about "The Many Faces of Islam" through a summer institute at Ohio University June 23 to 28.
The university's Center for International Studies received a $15,500 grant from the Ohio Humanities Council to support the program. Ohio University is one of only three universities to receive the grant.
A team of experienced educators will lead the institute. Howard Federspiel will serve as academic director. His research, teaching and writing focus on various aspects of Islam. Federspiel is a professor of political science at Ohio State University and adjunct faculty in Ohio University's Southeast Asian Studies Program.
The institute's project director is Polly Sandenburgh, director of outreach at the Center for International Studies. Sandenburgh is a curriculum development specialist and former classroom teacher.
"We are very excited to have the opportunity to offer 'The Many Faces of Islam' summer teacher institute," Sandenburgh said. "One of the legacies of Sept. 11 is that strong feelings, fears and misconceptions about Islam and Muslims are never far below the surface. The time is ripe for teachers to learn more about this important world religion."
Ohio humanities teachers in all grade levels and disciplines are encouraged to apply. Preference may be given to pairs of seventh through 12th grade teachers who teach at the same grade level, or within the same discipline, to create curriculum development teams.
Applications are due March 31. To request an application packet contact Sandenburgh at sandenbu@ohio.edu or (740) 593-1840.
"The Many Faces of Islam" will introduce participating teachers to the comparative religious and cultural values of Islam as reflected in history, religion and art. Participants may choose to take the institute for three graduate credits in either International Studies or Education.
Summer humanities institutes provide Ohio teachers the opportunity to work closely with talented, dedicated humanities scholars at colleges and universities around the state. In addition to providing professional development for teachers, the institutes also enrich the education of Ohio students.
