Training Teachers in the Harkness Approach

Elevating Education at St. Catherine Academy: Training Teachers in the Harkness Approach

At St. Catherine Academy, we are deeply committed to creating dynamic and engaging learning experiences for our students. One of the cornerstones of this commitment is our investment in training our faculty in the Harkness approach to teaching and learning. This innovative educational method emphasizes student-centered, discussion-based learning that aligns perfectly with our intimate class sizes, allowing every student to actively participate and grow.

What is the Harkness Approach?

Developed and refined at Phillips Exeter Academy, the Harkness approach centers on collaboration, critical thinking, and open dialogue among students. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding meaningful discussions where students take ownership of their learning. This method cultivates skills such as analytical reasoning, effective communication, and teamwork, all essential for success in today’s world.

Faculty Development at St. Catherine Academy

To bring the Harkness approach to life in our classrooms, St. Catherine Academy sends one faculty member annually to participate in professional development at Phillips Exeter Academy. These five-day intensive workshops immerse teachers in the principles of Harkness teaching, covering a wide array of subjects including math, science, humanities, and diversity. Each participant earns 40 clock hours of professional development while gaining invaluable insights into creating student-led learning environments.

So far, five of our talented educators have completed this training:

• Gayle Brooks
• Katie Brandt
• Allison Siebert
• Jennifer Zbytowski
• Jill Kara

Their expertise has been instrumental in transforming how we engage students in thoughtful discussion and collaborative learning.

Adapting Our Learning Spaces

The success of the Harkness approach has also inspired us to rethink how our classrooms are designed. To complement this teaching method, we’ve introduced two prototype rooms equipped with modular, adaptable furniture. These flexible learning spaces can be easily reconfigured to support a variety of activities, from small-group discussions to collaborative projects, further enhancing the Harkness experience.

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References:
https://exeter.edu/academics/center-for-teaching-learning/programs-educators/