The left is a sample of the class's weekly CANS philosophy for children sessions, where we would lead classroom activities to engage children with philosophy. I included it because it took a lot of time out of class for experiential experience, leading to our own development as philosophy educators. The right is a Dungeons and Dragons game, where we would use different ethics principles to guide our decisions. Both samples heavily represented what we did in the class.
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What was involvedÂ
This course focused on developing philosophical inquiry skills, emphasizing the art of asking meaningful questions and engaging in thoughtful dialogue. Students explored key philosophical concepts, particularly in moral reasoning and ethical decision-making, and examined how to foster authentic conversations. The class addressed questions such as the nature of philosophy, the power of certain questions, and why some discussions are challenging. A major component involved applying philosophical reasoning to real-life case studies and learning how to create and facilitate Philosophical Communities of Inquiry. Special attention was given to working with youth, with students having opportunities to engage in public outreach projects in schools and libraries or design their own initiatives. This hands-on approach reinforced the practical application of philosophy in everyday life and community engagement.
What I learned from the experience
From this course, I learned how to engage in meaningful philosophical inquiry and develop the skills to ask thoughtful, impactful questions. I gained a deeper understanding of moral reasoning and ethical decision-making, learning how to analyze real-life dilemmas through a philosophical lens. Through exploring topics like the nature of philosophy, the challenges of authentic conversation, and the power of certain questions, I became more aware of how inquiry shapes the way we think, communicate, and navigate complex issues. One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was applying what I learned in real-world settings. Engaging with youth in schools and libraries, or designing outreach projects, gave me firsthand insight into how philosophical discussions can foster critical thinking and deeper engagement with ideas. I saw how important it is to create spaces where people feel encouraged to ask questions and explore different perspectives. This experience also helped me improve my ability to facilitate discussions, listen actively, and guide conversations in a way that is inclusive and thought-provoking.
How it impacted my life
This course had a profound impact on the way I think, communicate, and engage with the world. It taught me to see questions not just as a means of getting answers, but as powerful tools for deeper understanding and meaningful dialogue. I now approach conversations with greater curiosity and openness, recognizing that asking the right questions can lead to insights I might not have considered before. This has changed the way I interact with others, making me a more active listener and a more thoughtful participant in discussions, whether in academic settings, personal relationships, or broader societal conversations. Engaging in philosophical inquiry also made me more aware of how moral reasoning plays a role in everyday decisions. I have become more reflective about my own beliefs, values, and the ethical complexities of different situations. Instead of looking for quick solutions, I now take the time to examine different perspectives, weigh arguments carefully, and think critically about the choices I make. This has not only strengthened my decision-making skills but has also helped me navigate difficult conversations with more confidence and empathy.
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