Circle One: Self (an explanation)

So, the hope of this project is to get us experimenting with accessible ways to get students working digitally. Nel Noddings' whole idea is that there are circles in which we relate to ourselves and the world around us. By being cognizant of these circles, we as educators can help youth become global citizens who formulate critical ideas to be active and engaged citizens.

In the coming weeks, some New School graduate students will experiment with these six circles and begin to lay the groundwork for a digital curriculum that engages youth with all aspects of the world around them. Any curriculum we would devise would integrate all of the circles.

The first circle is "Self." In this circle, we want the students to come to a better understanding of themselves and to have the opportunity to express themselves in a non-judgemental forum. Blogging seemed like the perfect venue. Not only could the student blog about their own experiences and ideas, but as they move through the other circles, the blog would become their base station where they would upload all of their materials and move thoughtfully in and out of each circle.

So, HERE IS WHAT A PROTOTYPE OF THE BLOG WOULD LOOK LIKE. Each student would regularly come to the blog to express themselves. And, each week as we explore a new circle, the student would return to the blog to upload their ideas and work.