To receive a presentation from Jennie Downs on Cynefin and spiritual
development in the Humanities area.
Minutes:
A presentation was received by Jenny Downs from Bangor University on the impact the 1588 translation of the Welsh Bible has had on the spirituality of Wales, its linguistic culture and landscape. She stated that she has explored the translation narrative through ‘Cynefin’ and sought to understand its deeper meaning and how it supports learners’ spiritual development in the Humanities AoLE in the Curriculum for Wales.
Ms Downs explained that the Welsh Language Act of 1993 has been significant in raising the profile of the Welsh language and has brought about the changes that led to the development of the Curriculum for Wales. She referred to the four purposes driving the change, which prepares future generations to navigate in an uncertain world. The importance of the mandatory element of RVE was also highlighted in this journey.
Ms Downs referred to the methodology used in her research, using ‘Cynefin’ as a lens to explore the six dimensions of the translation narrative. Each section is divided into three parts: the history of biblical translation; how the translators sourced ancient manuscripts; the bardic poetry that informed the language. She stated that the links to the Curriculum and Humanities ‘What Matters?’ are examined, demonstrating how learners’ spiritual development can progress through using the context of the translation as a theme. For instance, considering what motivated William Morgan – specifically, the influence of the natural landscape around him, particularly Ty Mawr and Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant, the places where he lived which inspired his thinking. It was noted that the word ‘Cynefin’ can describe a sense of the spiritual, the sacred, an interweaving of heritage, identity and culture.
Ms Downs reported that her literature review started with the use of ‘Cynefin’ in the Curriculum and the evolution of ‘Welshness’. She has further researched the global aspects of ‘Cynefin’, with particularly links to the New Zealand Curriculum, which focuses on cultural narratives, languages and traditions.
Ms Downs concluded the following findings from her research:
• It is essential to create a safe learning environment that fosters exploration
of the deeper questions of RVE and so supporting spiritual development.
• The authentic context of the translation could be used across the learning
continuum and Wales;
• The importance of enabling emerging practice in RVE;
• The next phase of Ms Downs’ research is on narrative and ‘Cynefin’.
The Primary Senior Manager questioned whether information from the presentation could be adapted from academic to classroom level and shared with schools? Ms Downs responded that there is definitely a piece of work that schools could use looking at the story of the Welsh Bible and stated that she would be happy to assist in any way.
The RVE Inspector reported that he is currently applying for funding from Culham St Gabriels to fund a ‘Cynefin’ project with teachers as part of the Humanities AoLE, to see what History, Geography and RVE could bring together.
The Chair thanked Ms Downs on behalf of the SAC for her very interesting and informative presentation.
RESOLVED to note the information presented.