A Study Circle defined a process of democratic smatl group learning that bulids community and engenders excitement. Within the definition is the concept that we are coming together to learn - not academic or book learning, but learning for life. This learning does not rely on intellectuality and abstraction, it's not dependent on reason and rationality. Changing one's life involves more than that. This is not just a way to explore ideas or train for jobs - it's a way to transform your life. The goal being to change in ways that bring greater joy and meaning: full living. To live fully, one must ask basic life questions Who am 1? What is the good life? The fully lived life lies in finding your own answers to the questions life poses. In study circle, we discover our own thoughts and ideas. What really makes me happy? What gives my iife meaning? We must find our truths rooted in our own lives. In study circle, we learn from dialogue where people are listening to each other with respect and caring, speaking to each other as honestly and authentically as they can. We don't play devil's advocate. We ask questions to gain clarity and understanding - there is no competition to win. Characteristics of a study circle: We have coordinators not leaders. Coordinators coordinate and facilitate/moderate discussions. The coordinator rotates. In discussion we place our focus on feelings and experiences, moving away from abstract, intellectual discussions. We ground our opinions and feelings in experiences. We speak Our truth and listen to others' truths. We discuss short readings or questions posed at the previous meeting.
Decision making is a group responsibility (Meeting day/time/frequency etc.)
1.Arrival, social time, tea.
2.Check in: go around circle and report changes made or attempted that week.
3.Discussion:
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