Study Circles

About Study Circles

In Study Circles - small group, democratic, participatory discussion - people have the change to get to know one another, consider different points of view, explore disagreements, and discover common ground.. A Study Circle is a process for small-group deliberation on a critical community issue, led by a trained facilitator. Eight to twelve people meet regularly over a period of six weeks for collaborative, democratic discussion. Discussion guides supplied by the National Study Circles Resource Center provide provocative viewpoints and scenarios for the group’s consideration. Topics include Racism/Race Relations; Youth Issues; Community Diversity; Growth and Development; Confronting Community Violence; Public and Police Relations; and Neighborhood Revitalization. Several groups meet concurrently throughout the community, discussing the same topic. At the completion of these meetings, all of the groups convene to share action ideas and to make commitments to action to address the issues. To date, over 250 people have participated in our Study Circles Program, including the Mayor of the City of Corvallis, City Councilors, and County Administrators. Action Groups which were formed from these Study Circles are working on such activities as addressing policies and practices that perpetuate institutional racism; working with local media sources to increase awareness of diversity issues; and developing diversity programs and projects for local youth and educators. There is no charge to participate in a Study Circle.

To read more about how Study Circles have been used in over 200 communities in the United States to address critical community issues, find common ground, establish shared goals, and form action groups to bring positive change, read the articles below and visit the Study Circles Resource Center.

To participate in one of the Study Circle sessions or become a Study Circle facilitator, please contact us directly through e-mail: honoringdiversity@yahoo.com or call us at (541) 738-6293