Learning Circles

Learning circles are groups of 6-12 participants who meet around topics or books consistent with the mission of the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL).  Open to both faculty and staff of UNC Asheville, groups typically meet once weekly for 3-6 sessions.  Learning circle topics are announced at the beginning of each semester.

Learning circles may be facilitated by the CTL Director or by faculty volunteers.  While different facilitators may have different styles, a central principle of learning circles is that every member is a learner, with no one the "authority."  All members have the opportunity to speak, and there is no necessity for closure in each session, i.e., it is fine to leave the room with "questions in the air."  If you might be interested in starting a learning circle, please contact Melissa Himelein.

Learning circles meet in the CTL commons area.  The CTL will purchase books (or reproduce journal articles) for learning circle members, and tea is always available!  Summer, 2011, learning circles included the following:

• How Learning Works – Melissa Himelein, facilitator.  Ambrose, S. A., Bridges, M. W., DiPietro, M., Lovett, M. C., & Norman, M. K. (2010). How learning works: Seven research-based principles for smart teaching. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Hybrid Learning – John Myers & Melissa Himelein, facilitators.  Snart, J. A. (2010). Hybrid learning: The perils and promise of belndin online and face-to-face instruction in higher education. Santa Barbara, CA: Praeger.
• The Inner Lives of Students – Bruce Larson, facilitator.  Astin, A. W., Astin, H. S., & Lindholm, J. A. (2010). Cultivating the spirit: How college can enhance students' inner lives. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Pedagogy of the Oppressed – Bruce Larson, facilitator.  Freire, P. (2000). The pedagogy of the oppressed, 30th anniversary edition. New York: Continuum.

See a list of learning circles conducted during the 2010-2011 academic year.

See a list of previous Learning Circles (2004-2010).