Circle Process: A Tool for Transformative Dialogue

Abstract

A circle is a carefully crafted space for silence, reflection, and dialogue (Boynes-Watson & Pranis, 2015). Circles aim to be safe, inclusive environments, offering opportunities for honest sharing and deep listening. The circle keeper facilitates the circle activities, ensuring equity of voice, so no single view dominates another.  When we think of circles within the context of education, we commonly associate the process with a facilitative dialogue that is initiated after some conflict has occurred. However, the role circle can play within school settings transcends a mere response to conflict; it can be used to build a sense of community and provide opportunities for staff and leadership development. This article explores how being “in circle” can be used to break through a neo-liberal paradigm in education that has stifled both teacher and student creativity and learning.