The Role and Methods of Moral Teachings in Muslim Schools in the United Kingdom: An analysis drawing comparisons with the role and methods employed by the early generations of Muslims

Abstract

It is universally acknowledged that education is a requirement and necessity for all children. There are many components of education, and this study delves into the moral aspect of Islamic teaching. It aims to determine what the basic principles of moral teachings are in Islam, with reference to Qur’an and Sunnah, as well as available historical literature. Data was collated from teachers at Islamic schools in the United Kingdom, by means of questionnaires, to determine what their attitudes and thoughts are regarding the importance of teaching morals, materials used to teach morals, and also methods of carrying out the teaching. The study found that ‘stories’ are an essential part of moral teachings throughout the ages, and were found by the questionnaire data to be most effective. Amongst the suggestions from the literature were reminders, teaching ‘in passing’, as and when certain morals are required to be taught, and also making use of parables