Wrestling with the spirit(ual): grappling with theory, practice and pedagogy

Abstract

This article explores the challenges of researching the spirit(ual) when the researcher questions the processes of research and their applicability to a study of spirituality. Must the spirit(ual) be explored with different considerations and with non‐traditional approaches because of the nature of what is being studied? The question arises initially out of personal difficulty with the interface of spirituality and research but there are implications for effective practice with children and youth and for pedagogical approaches to the young and to those who will work with them. How is the spirit(ual) known and experienced? What might we expect? What might be unexpected in the process? How is this to be realized in research and teaching?

Keywords:

• Spiritual
• Spirituality
• Research
• Pedagogy
• Practice