Ideas

Idea #15: Using The Circle Way

“The Circle Way has room for everyone.”¹

Learning Intention

The Circle Way is a method devised to engage those involved in a “shift from informal socializing or opinionated discussion into a receptive attitude of thoughtful speaking and deep listening.”² A slightly different approach to classroom discussions, the Circle Way is a lightly formalized and facilitated structure¹ with a primary goal to “create a dynamic learning field, no matter the topic.”¹

See also: Tara Perry; Theme page

Components²

• Intention: Set a learning intention to guide the group towards what kinds of outcomes of the time spent should be expected.

• Start-Point/Welcome: Use a signal that the circle has transitioned from a social space into a council space. This could be a moment of silence, the reading of a quote, or listening to a song.

• Setting the Center: Provide an object or concept that serves as a symbol of the purpose or intention of the circle.

• Check-In/Greeting: Allow time for all to share something to get into the frame of mind for the discussion.

• Guardian: Have a member of the circle volunteer to “watch and safeguard group energy and observe the circle’s process."

Implementation²

• Setting Circle Agreements: By constructing agreements prior to discussion, all members will be aware of the expectations, and will be able to have “a free and profound exchange,” as well as feel a sense of responsibility for the “well-being and direction of the group.”

• Three Principles:

• Leadership rotates among all participants

• Responsibility is shared for the quality of the experience

• Reliance is on wholeness over any personal agenda

• Three Practices:

• Speak with intention, noting what is relevant in the moment.

• Listen with attention and respect the differences in learning processes for each member.

• Tend to the well-being of the circle and remain aware of impacts on other members.

• Forms of Council:

• Talking Piece: effective in slowing the conversation down and collecting all voices on a particular subject without interruption (i.e., check-ins, check-outs, etc.).

• Conversation: effective in introducing reaction, interaction, and interjection of new ideas and when opinions are needed.

• Reflection/Silent: effective to reflect on what is occurring in the circle. Silence is necessary to allow each member to consider the impact they have made on the conversation taking place.

References

1. The Circle Way. (n.d.). What is the Circle Way? The Circle Way.
2. The Circle Way. (2021). The Circle Way Guidelines. The Circle Way.