The organizer:

• selects the topic and the study material
• recruits the participants
• arranges the meetings
• chooses the facilitator

The facilitator:

• moderates the discussion
• encourages full participation
• keeps the discussion on topic

The participants:

• listen carefully
• speak thoughtfully
• share their opinions
• respect themselves and others

A small group of people who agree to meet several times to leam together in a friendly and democratic way. They follow ground rules and guidelines that are simply good . rnanners.

There is no teacher in a study circle. There is a discussion leader or facilitator whose job is to get everyone to talk and to stick to the topic.

The learning comes from group discussion about the topic and the prepared study materials in terms of individual values and experience.

The topic can be dealt with using a few key questions to spark discussion. Magazine or newspaper articles, books or in depth, original material are all good resources.

All viewpoints are respected and everyone is encouraged to take part in the discussion so the group can learn from the shared wisdom of all its members.

Study circles are not about just telling stories. Everyone strives to understand what the others in the group think and to share their own knowledge and honest opinions. Real learning can happen in an easy and friendly atmosphere.