ISLAMIC HIGHER EDUCATION IN GERMANY: NEW INROADS IN CONSTRUCTIVIST PEDAGOGY, TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION AND INTRA-ISLAMIC DIALOGUE

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate, analyse and evaluate Islamic higher education in Germany along postmodern lines of constructivist pedagogy, social media technology and intra-Islamic dialogue. To achieve this goal, a mixed-method approach is applied: firstly, a quantitative survey of current, former and potential students of Islamic Theology in Germany, using an internet-based survey, and secondly two personal interviews with professional experts in the field. Results indicate that students see a need for ecumenical intra-Islamic studies across traditional orthodox Islamic frameworks. Constructivist pedagogy can support such ecumenical research and dialogue. Social networks play an important role in attracting prospective student candidates for Islamic Theology besides fostering online communication.