Plenary Session 1 Game changers: How Narrative 4 Story Exchange brought Students and Prisoners together 

Plenary Session 2: Exploring the Intersection of Restorative Practices in Ireland's Diverse Contexts

Closing Session: Implications of Empathetic Pedagogies to Classroom Practice 

Who is this for?

Primary teachers, Post primary teachers, Youth Workers, Adult Educators, Justice workers, Teacher Educators.

Restorative practice and story exchange play pivotal roles in shaping effective teacher education in classroom management and are particularly significant for secondary school teachers. These methodologies offer powerful tools for creating inclusive, supportive, and empathetic learning environments, ultimately enhancing the overall educational experience for both teachers and students.

Restorative Practice in Teacher Education

Fostering Positive Relationships

Restorative practice emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships within the school community. Teacher education programs that incorporate restorative practices equip educators with the skills to create nurturing and respectful classroom environments, which are essential for secondary school settings where students are navigating complex social dynamics.

Conflict Resolution and Community Building

By teaching restorative approaches, teacher education programs empower secondary school teachers to effectively manage conflicts and behavioural issues through dialogue, empathy, and accountability. This not only fosters a sense of community and belonging but also contributes to a more conducive learning atmosphere.

Promoting Responsibility and Accountability

Restorative practice encourages students to take responsibility for their actions, fostering a sense of accountability and promoting positive behavioural choices. Educators trained in restorative approaches are better equipped to guide students toward understanding the impact of their actions and making amends, creating a more supportive and respectful classroom culture.

Story Exchange in Teacher Education

Cultivating Empathy and Understanding

Story exchange initiatives provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and perspectives, fostering empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. In teacher education, story exchange activities can help future educators recognize the diverse backgrounds and lived experiences of their students, enabling them to create culturally responsive and empathetic learning environments in secondary schools.

Enhancing Communication Skills

Story exchange exercises help teachers develop strong communication skills and active listening abilities, which are vital for effectively managing a diverse classroom. These skills enable educators to engage with their students on a deeper level, understand their challenges, and provide the necessary support.

Building a Positive Classroom Culture

By incorporating story exchange into teacher education, future secondary school teachers can learn to create a classroom culture that values and respects the unique identities and narratives of each student. This approach can positively impact student-teacher relationships and contribute to a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Conclusion

Restorative practice and story exchange are instrumental in equipping teacher education programs to prepare secondary school teachers for the complex challenges of classroom management. By emphasizing empathy, communication, and community-building, these approaches not only enhance educators' ability to manage their classrooms effectively but also contribute to the holistic development and well-being of secondary school students. As such, integrating restorative practice and story exchange into teacher education curricula can significantly enhance the skills and competencies of future educators, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.