Education and Spirituality in Kazakhstan: "Self-cognition" Metadiscipline Features and Methods of Teaching

Abstract

In the 21 st century, harmonious combination of intellectual and moral development of an individual is important. How this can be integrated into the educational process? A new subject of Self-Cognition has been introduced into Kazakhstani secondary schools. Purpose of the Study: Generalization of teaching experience in the new school subject of Self-Cognition and establishing didactic bases for Self-Cognition teaching strategies being the realization of the new century pedagogics. Research Methods: Observation and generalization of innovative teachers' experience in Self-Cognition, comparison of combined lesson structures with the lesson of Self-Cognition, systematization and analysis of new learning strategies, student interviews to conclude whether they have developed an understanding of the new bases of pedagogical science, structure of Self-Cognition subject planning, differences when compared to other school disciplines. The content of the subject is based on the Program of spiritual and moral education of Self-Cognition, focusing on holistic approach to the perception of a human and identification of universal values within him/her -Truth, Love, Righteous Conduct, Inner Peace and Non-violence. The main principles of secular teachings on spirituality -SelfCognition, are humanistic orientation, human values, social interaction, national heritage, and nature-conformity. Significant differences in the strategies of teaching "Self-knowledge" and other school lessons are revealed. The strategies of value-based education, the personal-sense development, storytelling, etc are emphasized. The methodical recommendations for the improvement of education on the subject "Self-knowledge" are suggested that include the active use of cognitive approach and social constructivism, and the extension of art technologies usage.

Storytelling For Moral Education Of Schoolchildren In Self-Cognition Classroom

“…Since it is a new subject in educational practices, it taps into innovative teaching techniques and strategies. The school lesson includes the following phases (Mukazhanova & Omarova, 2013;Mynbayeva et al, 2016): shaping a positive attitude, delivering lesson quotes, conversation or storytelling, creative and group work activities, singing songs, etc. Grigorovich (2003) defines morality as a personality trait that combines such qualities and properties as kindness, decency, discipline, collectivism".…”