| |
Study circle programs began in Arkansas in 1998 to help the citizens of this state engage in dialogue and problem solving on educational issues. Since that time the Arkansas Study Circles Project (ASCP), has worked throughout the state, in over 50 communities, on issues such as student achievement, high school reform and family involvement. The project also works in areas such as early care and education, and diversity.
Study circles work to broaden public engagement through deliberative dialogue to find common ground, build trust, and develop better solutions for all of Arkansas communities in the area of education. The purpose of study circles is to foster understanding. The belief is that with understanding, productive action can take place.
The important feature of study circle programs is that they do not “prescribe solutions” or advocate specific actions. Study circles lay the groundwork for thoughtful action at many levels. By participating in study circles, parents, students, community members, business leaders, teachers, and administrators gain “ownership” of the issues, discover a connection between personal experiences and school policies, and gain a deeper understanding of their own and others’ perspectives and concerns. They discover common ground and a greater desire and ability to work collaboratively to solve problems – as individuals, as members of small groups and as members of large organizations in the community. Action grows out of study circles in response to the school’s unique situation. Study circles help school district leaders identify community priorities and important policy issues. They also help build broader community awareness and support for local public schools.
The ASCP provides free training to school communities for organizational teams and facilitator and recorders. It is modeled after the work done by Everyday Democracy (formerly known as the Study Circles Resource Center) in Pomfret Connecticut. SCRC has worked with communities around the country on many social and political issues. The ASCP is located at the Arkansas School Boards Association.
What do we believe?
We are dedicated to helping communities by giving them the tools to organize inclusive, diverse, face-to-face dialogue that leads to positive action. We do this because we believe:
- citizens care about their communities,
- people will support what they help create,
- people need and deserve to participate in decisions that affect them,
- every voice is needed and should be valued,
- everyone has something to contribute,
- diversity of opinions results in better solutions, and
- dialogue builds understanding and trust.
What is our vision?
We see a state where all citizens have a voice in decisions that affect them; where citizens voice their concerns in civil democratic ways and where their voices are heard. We see every citizen playing a part in building the lines of communication throughout the state so that we are learning from each other. We see a state where people come together from all walks of life to understand other views, work through problems, and plan for their futures. We see a state where every citizen is encouraged and given the opportunity to participate in dialogue where they are respected. We see a state where every citizen is talking and planning together to be certain, without a doubt, that every child is afforded the best education that they deserve.
What is our mission?
The mission of the Arkansas Study Circles Project is to inform, inspire, prepare, and support communities to engage in civil and productive discussions that find common ground, build trust, and create strong partnerships to improve education for every child in Arkansas.
What are study circles?
Study circles:
- are groups of 8-12 people who meet multiple times to discuss a critical issue facing their community, school district or school,
- bring people from many viewpoints and backgrounds together for honest and helpful discussions,
- give people a chance to build trust and find common ground for solutions and action,
- build on good work that is happening already,
- are organized by a diverse group of people within the community, and
- are guided by a neutral facilitator, recorder and discussion guide.
How do study circles make a difference?
When people talk with each other and work together to solve public problems, powerful results can take place. For example:
- people learn new ideas,
- people develop new relationships and networks,
- people take ownership of the issue, and new leaders emerge,
- people change institutions, and
- people change public policy.
What are the benefits of study circles?
Study circles:
- allow discussion of the issues in a comfortable setting,
- foster consideration of other points of view,
- inspire direct involvement in the democratic process, and
- encourage citizens to become more thoughtful and active.
What discussion topics are available through the ASCP?
The ASCP can help your community have dialogue on a variety of different topics. Including:
The Project Coordinator, Diane Vibhakar, can also work with a community and/or school district to adapt a discussion guide to meet their current needs.
Related Links:
Discussion Guides
Trainings Available
Special Programs
Study Circles Resources Center
Related Downloads (pdf):
Arkansas Study Circles Project Brochure
Student Achievement Brochure
Family Involvement Brochure
Early Care & Education Brochure
Getting Started and Building Your Team Handout (MSWord)
|
|
