Philosophy in the Classroom

Laura D'Olimpio (University of Birmingham), Henry Taylor (University of Birmingham), Lisa Bortolotti (University of Birmingham), Kathleen Murphy-Hollies (University of Birmingham)

In this webinar, chaired by Kathleen Murphy-Hollies, we will look at some ideas about how to engage young people in philosophical reflection or discussion.  

Laura D'Olimpio will lead a session entitled "Philosophy for Children as a radical pedagogy" where she introduces a Community of Inquiry pedagogy to encourage the four C’s: critical, creative, caring and collaborative thinking. This radical approach prioritises listening to children’s voices and taking their philosophical questions seriously.  

Henry Taylor will lead a session entitled "Philosophy Smash! Philosophy interviews in the classroom". The Philosophy Smash project aims to record interviews with philosophers for use in Key Stage 2 and 3. Henry will introduce the project, and reflect on how it can be most helpfully deployed for teachers.  

Lisa Bortolotti will lead a session entitled: "The Philosophy Garden: videos and games to stimulate reflection in children and young people". Lisa will introduce the Personal Identity Game and discuss the use of short videos to kickstart a conversation about interesting and sensitive topics.