2022-23 Innovative Teaching Showcase
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
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Intention: Set a learning intention to guide the group towards what kinds of outcomes of the time spent should be expected.
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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.
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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.
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Guardian: Have a member of the circle volunteer to “watch and safeguard group energy and observe the circle’s process."
Implementation2
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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.”
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Three Principles:
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Leadership rotates among all participants
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Responsibility is shared for the quality of the experience
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Reliance is on wholeness over any personal agenda
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Three Practices:
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Speak with intention, noting what is relevant in the moment.
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Listen with attention and respect the differences in learning processes for each member.
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Tend to the well-being of the circle and remain aware of impacts on other members.
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Forms of Council:
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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.).
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Conversation: effective in introducing reaction, interaction, and interjection of new ideas and when opinions are needed.
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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
- The Circle Way. (n.d.). What is the Circle Way? The Circle Way.
- The Circle Way. (2021). The Circle Way Guidelines. The Circle Way.