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SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES

American Degree Transfer Program

MODULE INFORMATION BOOKLET

WORLD RELIGIONS
(WREL 105)
2019 SPRING SEMESTER
(14 weeks)

Prepared by:
NGUI YEW KIT, CLARENCE

Approved by:

____________________________
Chan Lai Ngo
Stream Coordinator
Liberal Arts & Language Department
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences

25-January 2019
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CONTENT PAGE NO.

Introduction 2

Learning Outcomes 3

Delivery Method 4

Assessment 6

Academic Policies 9

Course Schedule & Scheme of Work 11

I INTRODUCTION

This course is a survey of the major religious traditions of the East and the West, covering
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Adopting
a critical approach toward the study of “religion” itself, this module will look at the historical
development, practices, and teachings of these major traditions. This course is designed to
provide students with an overview of the great religions of the world and to give them an
international outlook. It will examine the religious and spiritual experience of different
communities across time and space. The course will touch on the methodological issues arising
in the study of religions and the current approaches to inter-religious dialogue.

Lecturer ‘s Details
Lecturer : Ngui Yew Kit, Clarence
Email : ykngui@gmail.com
Tel No : +6016 957 9970
Class Times : Tues 10:00am - 12:00pm
Thurs 10:0am - 12:30pm
Consultation Hour : Tues & Thurs 11:45am – 1.45pm or by appointment
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LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Describe the socio-historical context for the emergence of each religion studied;
2. Give a basic description of each religious tradition in terms of its founder(s), practices, and
doctrine;
3. Discuss how various differences and/or divisions developed in each religion across history;
and
4. Compare and contrast the worldviews engendered by each religious tradition.

*Co-requisite : ENGL 101

TAYLOR’S GRADUATE CAPABILITIES (TGCs)

This module hopes to prepare students with several important soft skills identified by the
university known ‘Taylor’s Graduate Capabilities (TGCs)’. There are eight (8) elements
listed under TGCs as follows:

A. KNOWLEDGE
TGC 1: Discipline Specific Knowledge
1.1 Able to put theories into practice.
1.2 Understand ethical issues in the context of the field of study.
1.3 Understand professional practice within the field of study.
B. COGNITIVE SKILLS
TGC 2: Lifelong Learning
2.1 Learn independently
2.2 Locate, extract, synthesize and utilize information effectively.
2.3 Be intellectually engaged
TGC 3: Thinking & Problem Solving skills
3.1 Think critically and creatively.
3.2 Define and analyze problems to arrive at effective solutions.

C. SOFT SKILLS
TGC 4: Communication Skills
4.1 Communicate appropriately in various settings and modes.
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TGC 5: Interpersonal Skills

5.1 Understand team dynamics and work with others in a team.
5.2 Understand and assume leadership.

TGC 6: Intrapersonal Skills

6.1 Manage one self and be self-reliant.
6.2 Reflect on one’s actions and learning.
6.3 Embody Taylor’s core values.
TGC 7: Citizenship and Global Perspectives
7.1 Be aware of and form opinions from diverse perspectives.
7.2 Understand the value of civic responsibility and community engagement.

TGC8: Digital Literacy

8.1 Effective use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and related
technologies.

DELIVERY METHOD

TEACHING AND LEARNING METHODS

In accordance with the American tradition of tertiary learning, students are expected to assume
responsibility for their own learning at this level. This means, above all, students should focus on
developing capacity for self-reliance and initiative in the learning process. To facilitate this
development, this module employ the following strategies:

1. Review of material in assigned readings

2. Small- and large-group discussions
3. Lectures to augment readings, as necessary
4. Analysis and discussion of active learning methods related to world religions
5. Individual and small-group activities and presentations

UNIT VALUE OF MODULE

3 credit hours
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TEXTS
Main Reference
Matthews, Warren. World Religions. 7th ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Cengage, 2013.

Additional References
Brood, Jeffrey; Little, Layne; Bradley, Nystrom; Platzner, Robert; Shek, Richard & Stiles, Erin.
Invitation to World Religion. 2nd Edition. New York: Oxford University Press. 2016.
Willis, Jim. The Religion Book. Canton, MI: Visible Ink Press, 2004.
Smart, N. The Religious Experience of Mankind. NY: Charles Scribner and Sons, 1969.
Lessa and Vogt (Eds.). Readers in Comparative Religions. Harper Andrew, 1972.
Additional readings as indicated in the Course Schedule and posted on TIMeS.

CLASSROOM POLICIES
As in your Student Handbook. Basic classroom etiquette is to be observed—regular and punctual
attendance, class participation, mutual respect in conversations, etc. Penalties on late submission
of assignments as well as make-ups for quizzes and examinations will administered according to
the discretion of the instructor. Any form of academic dishonesty, e.g. cheating and plagiarism,
will not be tolerated.

General Expectations
Students should observe basic etiquette – punctuality, respectful interactions with one another,
keeping to the stipulated length of class breaks, etc.

Use of Technology
You may use your phone, tablet, and/or laptop in class to assist the learning process in any way
you see fit.

Office Hours
Meetings with students are by appointments and should be during scheduled consultation hours
on Tuesday and Thursday.
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ONLINE SUPPORT
Taylor’s University provides a portal on Learning Management System known as Taylor’s
Integrated Moodle e-Learning System (TIMeS). Students can conveniently access to the
following module resources through TIMeS Portal:
 Module Information Booklet
 Lecture slides
 In-class and online quizzes
 Online resources
 Other relevant information

Students are advised to visit TIMeS Portal every dayto get latest information on the module.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment Summary

Assessment Student Learning TGCs Weightage

Outcomes
Attendance and class 15%
participation

Quizes 1, 2, 3, 4 15%

Group project 1, 2, 3, 4 20%

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Mid-term exam 1, 2, 3, 4 20%

Final exam 1, 2, 3, 4 30%

Students are awarded a final grade which corresponds with the marks obtained. As this
course is based on continuous assessment, students are required to complete the requisite
quizzes, assignments and exams in order to pass this course.

All students must adhere to the Taylor’s University’s Examinations, Assessment Policies
and Procedures manual available athttp://portals.taylors.edu.my.

ASSESSMENT COMPONENTS
Attendance & Participation
Attendance will constitute 5% of students’ final score and participation 10%. Assessment of
participation will be based primarily on students’ attentiveness and engagement in the
classroom. Broader forms of participation, such as contribution to forum discussions in TIMeS
and other demonstrations of initiative and effort throughout the term will be taken into
consideration.

Quizzes
Quizzes are intended to keep students on-track with the assigned readings. Date and topics
covered by each quiz will be announced during classes..

Group Project
For this exercise, students are given a particular religious place to research. Students are given
the options of producing a :-
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a) Written Report; OR
b) Video Documentary.
Students should be focused on the religious institution, its history, social-economic functions,
and the religious activities conducted there. Further instructions are posted on TIMeS.

Mid-term and Final Exams

Mid-term and Final Exams are tools to test students’ accumulation of knowledge and skills
learnt from the beginning of the course till the end. Make-up exams will only be permitted for
grave reasons.

*Students are required to attempt the final examination. Failure to do so will result in a fail
grade (F).

Writing Proficiency
Work submitted by students should observe the basic conventions of writing. Correcting errors,
especially those in grammar, syntax and spelling, is not the lecturer’s responsibility. Marks will
be deducted for such mistakes.

Encyclopedias of any kind, including the very popular Wikipedia, are not primary sources and
should not be cited or used in constructing term papers at the undergraduate or graduate level.
They can, however, be useful to help gather some background information and to point the way
to more reliable sources.

Students are awarded a final grade which corresponds with the marks obtained.

All students must adhere to the Taylor’s University’s Examinations, Assessment Policies and
Procedures manual available at http://portals.taylors.edu.my
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ACADEMIC POLICIES

Attendance
Class attendance is compulsory. Students are advised to attend classes because important
information related to the module, such as the syllabus as well as types and method of
assessments, will be covered during these. Failure to attend lectures may lead to confusion and
misunderstanding on the module assessment and topics discussed in subsequent sessions. Only
absences with valid reasons and documented proof will be accepted.

REMINDER: Students who fail to maintain a minimum of 80 percent attendance will be barred from
sitting for the final examination.

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the use of someone else's language, ideas, information or original material without
acknowledging the source. All students are expected to attend a course on proper usage of
referencing. Information about referencing is available from Taylor’s University Intellect’s Learning
and Academic Skills (LAS) department and/or from the library webpages at:
http://iportal.taylors.edu.my/taylor_customize/Information_Skills/Reference/reference_mainp
age.htm

Plagiarism is a serious offenceand any individual (who is suspected of plagiarism) would be referred
to the Academic Integrity Committee of Taylor's University. Please refer to the Student Handbook
for further information.

Tardiness
POSITIVE ATTITUDE means, among others, being on time at the designated place. Tardiness reflects
bad planning and being rude to the person(s) who has/have been kept waiting. Being late to class
without valid reasons will be construed as unexcused absence (although you will be allowed to
attend the class).
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Class conduct
No eating or drinking will be allowed during the lecture. All electronic devices (mobile phones,
tablets or laptops) should be turned off during lecture hours, unless permitted for class use by the
lecturer. If you have any questions during the lecture, do not hesitate to raise your hand to clear
your doubt. Class participation during discussion is encouraged.

Assignments
All assignments must be submitted on or before the scheduled date and time. Penalties will be
imposed for late submissions.

Repeat
Students are only allowed to repeat a course for a maximum of 3 times over the duration of study,
if they fail. Students are advised to retake the course if they obtain any grade below C in the
subsequent semester. A student has to obtain 70% or a min C grade in order to Pass the course.

GRADING

Percentage Grade Points per Percentage Grad Points per

Credit Hour e Credit Hour
97% - 100% A+ 4.00 70% - 73% C 2.00
90% - 96% A 4.00 67% - 69% C- 1.70
87% - 89% A- 3.70 64% - 66% D+ 1.30
84% - 86% B+ 3.30 60% - 63% D 1.00
80% - 83% B 3.00 55% - 59% D- 0.70
77% - 79% B- 2.70 0% - 54% F 0.00
74% - 76% C+ 2.30
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Course Schedule & Scheme of Work

Week Date Topic(s) & Readings Learning Learning & TGCs

Outcomes Teaching
Activities

1 15/1 Introduction to World Religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture

In-class
Discussion

17/1 Phenomenon of Religion 1,2,3,4

Lecture
Academic Study of Religions In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 1
2 22/1 Animism and Nature-Inspired Religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture
In-class
Discussion

24/1 Animism in Today’s World 1,2,3,4 Lecture

In-class
Read: Chap 2 Discussion

3 29/1 Ancient and Classical Religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Ancient Greece In-class
Discussion
 Ancient Rome
31/1  Ancient Egypt 1,2,3,4 Lecture
 Zoroastrianism In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 7
4 5/2 Public Holiday: Chinese New Year 1,2,3,4 Self Study
and
Research
7/2 Online Learning 1,2,3,4 Self Study
& Research
Quiz 1 Written
Assessment

5 12/2 Hinduism 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Historical Development In-class
Discussion
 Essential Doctrines

Read: Chap 3
14/2  Hinduism in India 1,2,3,4 Lecture
 Hinduism Today In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 3
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6 19/2 Buddhism 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Life of the Buddha In-class
Discussion
 Essential Doctrines

Read: Chap 4
22/2  Historical Development 1,2,3,4 Lecture
 Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Tibet and In-class
Discussion
Southeast Asia

Read: Chap 4
7 26/2 Other Indian Religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture
 Jainism In-class
Discussion
 Sikhism

Read: Chap 5
28/2 Mid Term Exam 1,2,3,4 Written
Assessment

8 5/3 Chinese Religious Traditions 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Confucianism In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 6
7/3 • Taoism 1,2,3,4 Lecture
In-class
Read: Chap 6 Discussion
Self Study
& Research
Quiz 2
Written
Assessment
9 12/3 • Buddhism in Chinese Religious 1,2,3,4 Lecture
Tradition In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 4

14/3 Other East Asian religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Shinto In-class
Discussion
 Cao Dai and Vietnamese religious
traditions

Read: Chap 6

10 19/3 Judaism 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Historical Development In-class
Discussion
 Essential Doctrines
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Read: Chap 8

21/3  Zionism 1,2,3,4 Lecture

In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 8
Self Study
& Research
Quiz 3
Written
Assessment

11 26/3 Christianity 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 Life of Christ In-class
Discussion
 Essential Doctrines

Read: Chap 9
28/3  Historical Development 1,2,3,4 Lecture
In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 9
12 2/4 Islam 1,2,3,4 Lecture
 Life of the Prophet In-class
Discussion
 Essential Doctrines.

Read: Chap 10
4/4  Historical Development 1,2,3,4 Lecture
In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 10
Self Study
& Research
Quiz 4
Written
Assessment

13 9/4 Religions in the 21st Century 1,2,3,4 Lecture

 New Religions and New Forms of Old In-class
Discussion
Religions

Read: Chap 11-12

11/4  Globalisation and world religions 1,2,3,4 Lecture

In-class
Discussion
Read: Chap 11-12
Self Study
& Research
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Submission of Group Project (FINAL

DEADLINE)
14 16/4 Conclusion and Discussion 1,2,3,4 Lecture
Presentation of Group Projects In-class
Discussion

18/4 Presentation of Group Projects 1,2,3,4 Lecture

In-class
Discussion

Course Schedule: The lecturer reserves the right to modify the work schedule as and when deemed
necessary.