Smudging and Circle Learning
- Within the talking circle, only one person speaks at a time.
- There is respect for all within the circle as each participant listens with undivided attention to their fellow learner.
- This traditional form allows weighty things to find voice in a sacred manner.
(Coyhis and Simonelli, 2008)
- Similar to the overall values of teaching, instructors do not sift, censor, evaluate, or attempt to modify knowledge contributed by students and community members. In order to teach generatively, instructors need to
be open to realities are diverse, and need to value the knowledge and experience of students. (Ball, 2004)
- Amazing and powerful learning can emerge from participation in Circles, they are not limited to one area of discussion, topic or subject, thus making it an impressive vehicle for acquiring knowledge. Regardless of the purpose or focus, guidance can be received from a place within that reaches the spirit, along with the intellectual part of knowing and receiving information, similar to transformation learning. As Hill summarizes, Sharing circles are the vehicle whereby the spiritual dimensions of Native adult education surface as Native people journey toward self-determination (Hill, 1995).