ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the benefits of creative thinking and dialogue in Religious education (RE), as well as practical ways of making this happen in the classroom. RE creates a perfect opportunity for children to think and talk creatively and philosophically because it is concerned with exploring differing views of the world and people place as humans within it. Creative thinking and dialogue in RE can take place through the development of a community of enquiry. The various key concepts can fall into different categories as outlined by Erriker, Lowndes & Bellchambers and are used as a basis for conceptual enquiry at the centre of the Hampshire Locally Agreed Syllabus for RE. Philosophy for Children (P4C) and the other thinking strategies that encourage collaborative and creative thinking and dialogue in the classroom have many benefits, both visible and hidden. Creative thinking and dialogue in RE also offers important opportunities for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
