13 Circle of Learning
Teachings from the Four Directions
The concept “Circle of Learning” is adopted as a framework for organizing learning experiences designed to promote traditional Wolastoqey/Mi’kmaq knowledge, worldviews, traditions, ceremonies, histories, and teachings. It is a concept that embraces holistic learning whereby the four aspects of personal development (social, emotional, physical and spiritual) are addressed. The concept also instills within individuals the desire to be engaged in life-long learning. In addition, the Circle of Learning promotes the principles of respect, sharing, harmony, balance, equality and interdependence. Finally, learning experiences and the teaching of cultural topics are highly integrated which is consistent with the belief that all of creation is connected and therefore interdependent.
The primary purpose of the Circle of Learning framework is to help learners connect with all of creation. Learning experiences are designed to help students connect with the social, physical and spiritual realms. As they connect with the three realms, positive relationships are established and nurtured within the Circle. These relationships are based on the principles of respect and harmony. Learners embrace the principle of respect for all of Creation including their interactions with others in our social environments. This creates a web of harmonious relationships as the students continue their journey along the Circle of Learning paradigm.
The Circle of Learning establishes a safe and respectful learning environment that helps each student to develop a healthy self-concept and a positive self-esteem. This is accomplished by promoting ancestral languages, worldviews, traditions, and teachings. Traditional Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq knowledge systems are recognized and promoted within the classrooms.
All learning experiences derive from ancestral worldviews, traditions, values and teachings. Within this framework, it is recognized that Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq languages reflect the worldviews and value systems of each community. The ultimate aim is to establish a strong cultural foundation within each individual learner.
Learning experiences emanating from the Circle of Learning instills within individuals a sense of pride, self-worth, self-esteem, and belonging. Learners are culturally grounded and this leads to enhanced academic performance. Through Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq cultures, students acquire academic skills in all subject areas. Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq cultures provide the foundation for learning experiences designed to assist students acquire the skills targeted in all subject areas of the public school curriculum. Thus, it is important to incorporate Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq perspectives, knowledge systems, worldviews, and traditions into the provincial curriculum at all levels of the education system. The Circle of Learning ensures that Wolastoqey and Mi’kmaq content are indeed incorporated into the public school sys