What are Discovery Circles?
Discovery Circles are inspired by the Swedish Study Circle model, an approach to adult education dating back as far as the nineteenth century. The purpose of a Circle is to be an open and inclusive approach to learning, with members of a Circle coming together to learn, discuss, and discover more about a topic. Circles are not led by any one individual, but rather are a cooperative and democratic approach to learning. Members of each Circle determine how the Circle works and the content it will cover.
What support can Leicester Vaughan College offer Discovery Circles?
To support Discovery Circles, Vaughan College can:
- Create a webpage for each Circle, including a description of the Circle, upcoming events, and other information.
- Provide a process for new members to join the Circle.
- Advertise upcoming Circle meetings in Vaughan emails.
- Advertise Circles and Circle events on our social media.
- Organise an annual get-together of Circles.
- Provide trouble-shooting or advice where a Circle is unable to resolve an issue itself.
- Provide a limited budget for room hire until March 2025, donated by the Central England Cooperative Community Fund.
What Circles are there, and how can I join one?
There are currently a few Circles getting started. Please see the Current Discovery Circles page to see the current and in-development Circles and, if you wish to join any, please complete the Join a Discovery Circle form.
Can I start a new Circle?
Yes. To propose a new Circle, please see the information on the Discovery Circle Proposal page and complete the information.