This empirically grounded book focuses on the constitution of the professional habitus in Religious Education. The book contains a solid theoretical background referring to the theories of professionalism and habitus formation (e. g. Pierre Bourdieu) and delivers directly usable methods to form the habitus in teacher training. One innovative method is Professional Simulation, which is presented in detail. The book consists of six chapters: The professional habitus. The professionalized habitus. The professional and professionalized habitus in teacher training. Concept and methods of Professional Simulation. Case studies in teacher training and empirical research. Conclusions for contemporary challenges. The book is aimed at students, trainees and teachers who intend to develop or improve their professional competences. It is also directed to researchers who are interested in developing a theory of professional action in Religious Education. It can be used at university, in teacher training institutes and in the professional field of schools.

Manfred Riegger, Prof. Dr. Social Work (FH), is academic senior advisor to the Chair for Catholic Religious Didactics and Religious Education at the Catholic- Theological Faculty at the University of Augsburg, Germany, andholds an Extraordinary Professorship on Religious Education and Catechesis.