Transformation of Christian Religious Education in the era of digital technology to maintain a balance between materiality and spirituality

Talizaro Tafonao; Fransiskus Irwan Widjaja

Authors

Talizaro Tafonao REAL College of Theology
Fransiskus Irwan Widjaja REAL College of Theology

Keywords:

Christian Religious Education, Religious Education, Pedagogical Transformation, Character Education, Theological Reflection

Abstract

Digital transformation has become a dominant force in education, including Christian Religious Education. It offers broader access, diversified learning methods, and enhanced learner participation. However, it also carries the risk of displacing the spiritual orientation that constitutes the foundation of Christian Religious Education. The key challenge lies in maintaining a balance between materiality such as technological mastery and information access and spirituality, which emphasises faith formation and Christian character building. This study aims to: (1) identify the main focus of literature on digital transformation in Christian Religious Education; (2) analyse the balance between materiality and spirituality in the literature; (3) explore the conceptual framework and its contextual applications; and (4) formulate an integrative strategy to link technological advancement with the strengthening of spiritual values. A qualitative method was employed, using an interpretivist literature analysis design. Data were collected through purposive, theoretical, and maximum variation sampling from the Scopus, ScienceDirect, and CrossRef databases, and analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings highlight the need for educators to play an active role as spiritual guides, the recontextualisation of faith values in digital media, and the development of curricula that integrate technological skills with character formation. This study contributes conceptually to developing a model of Christian Religious Education in the digital era and offers practical implications for policy, teacher training, and value-based curriculum design.

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