Teaching Democracy with Open Space Sessions

Children learn through their experiences; if we want students to learn effective tools for participating in democracy, then we need to provide them with opportunities to think critically, to reflect on issues that are important to them, to consider and assess differing viewpoints, and to present rational arguments and take a stand. We need to give students a voice in matters of significance to them.
On Thursday, Feb. 17, 2011, in a special meeting before school, staff members met to discuss how, as educators in a progressive independent school, we could and should respond to the events unfolding around us. We decided that the appropriate course of action was to do what we do best-create meaningful learning opportunities for our students linked to current events and related issues.
After considering different options and strategies, we decided to hold a school-wide Open Space event that very morning. This may sound hasty, but the nature of Open Space is that it does not require much in the way of preparation; it's a structure that allows participants to meet and discuss topics that are of interest to them.
Discussion topics ranged from, "Making Friends" to "What is Democracy" to "How Do We Work Things Out?" and students from all levels offered discussion options and participated in the conversations. One of the strengths of this kind of forum is that it encourages the sharing of differing perspectives and provides a voice for all who want to speak.
One parent who witnessed the Open Space activities said, "These kids aren't just learning to be leaders; they are learning to be really good leaders."
by Paul Brahce, Head of School