Medieval scholasticism is a term used to describe the Christian theology and philosophy that emerged during the Middle Ages. It was a period of intense intellectual activity and scholars engaged in debates and discussions about various topics, ranging from the nature of God to the existence of free will. If you are a teacher, introducing this topic to your students can be challenging, but it is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Here are some tips on how to teach students about medieval scholasticism.
Understand the History
Before you can teach your students about medieval scholasticism, you need to understand the history of this period. You need to know the key figures, the movements, and the events that helped shape the development of scholasticism. Many books and documentaries have been written about this period. So, brush up on your history and gather as much information as possible.
Define Key Terms
Medieval scholasticism is full of dense vocabulary that can be difficult for students to understand. You need to define key terms, such as Aristotelianism, Thomism, and Nominalism. Explain to your students what these words mean and how they relate to scholasticism. This will help them follow along and understand the arguments and discussions that took place during this period.
Use Visual Aids
Medieval scholasticism can be an abstract concept for students to grasp. Many of the ideas and arguments discussed during this period require a deep understanding of theology, philosophy, and even science. So, using visual aids, such as diagrams, flowcharts, and illustrations, can help your students understand these complex ideas. You can also use multimedia resources, such as videos, podcasts, and interactive learning tools.
Plan Interactive Lessons
To make your lessons engaging and interactive, plan activities that allow your students to practice some of the skills medieval scholars used during debates and discussions. For example, you can divide your students into groups and have each group represent a different school of thought, such as Aristotelianism or Nominalism. Each group can then present their beliefs and arguments to the class, and students can participate in a debate.
Read Primary Sources
To truly understand the intellectual mindset of medieval scholars, it is important to read primary sources from this period. Encourage your students to read works by prominent thinkers, such as St. Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham, and Duns Scotus. These works can be challenging, but they offer a glimpse into the intellectual world of medieval scholasticism.
Conclusion
Teaching students about medieval scholasticism can be challenging, but it is important for them to understand the intellectual and philosophical developments that took place during this period. By understanding the history, defining key terms, using visual aids, planning interactive lessons, and reading primary sources, you can help your students approach this complex topic with confidence and curiosity.
