Israel Education - Thinking Out of the Box

Publication Date: January 2004

Publisher: Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education

Author(s): Nachama Skolnik Moskowitz

Research Area: Culture and religion; Education

Keywords: Liberal Judaism; Israel Education; Diaspora Relations

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This discussion paper is an attempt to frame the issues surrounding the "teaching of Israel" for Jews in the United States, whether by educators in the U.S., or in Israel. It was developed in response to the increase in efforts of Israeli educators to develop educational materials for Jews living hutz la'aretz (outside of Israel), and the concern that many of these resources miss the mark for their intended audience. Hopefully, this discussion will prod educators on both sides of the ocean to develop some philosophical direction and strategies.

This article informally examines the stance toward Israel education taken by non-Orthodox Jewish educators in the United States, as well as the stance of Israel educators based in Israel. Finally, suggestions are offered to help focus a vision for Israel education that fits with the sociological reality of America's liberal Jews.