"Philosophy for Children" is not a study of
philosophical texts, or a study of famous philosophers or exploring
paradoxes of the past. Central to philosophy for children is its
distinctive Community of
Inquiry.
Features:
a student driven agenda
serious dialogue; atmosphere of
openness
ownership of discussion; distinctive
environment
life relevance
question finding
changed role of teacher (not just
procedural)
teacher as participant and
learner.
Outcomes:
raised self esteem (both cognitive
& social and emotional)
improving interpersonal
communication
desirable dispositional attitudes
improving the kinds of questions
put
inferential reading of text
dealing with differences, ambiguities and
conflict
skills of interpretation and
reflection
comprehension; analysis;
evaluation.
Issues:
maturity of a community of
inquiry
visitor or newcomer fitting in
plateaux of contentment.
G. Smith 1999