Promoting Peacemaking Circles and Building Connections in the Classroom – Examining the Utilization of Restorative Justice Techniques in Academia

• In Event: Innovations in Teaching - 1

Abstract

The use of peacemaking circles through restorative justice based programming is a growing practice and can be witnessed in a variety of settings across multiple academic disciplines. The utilization of peacemaking circles in the classroom is a natural choice for many reasons, including the process it provides for critical discussions of course content, promoting inclusiveness and community building within the classroom, and allowing students to have a first-hand experience with the power of restorative justice programming. This paper examines thematic content provided by self-administered surveys from students in a criminal justice course utilizing a peacemaking circle process as a key component and provides a discussion of relevant findings and recommendations.

Author

• Jennifer Trombley, Southern University, New Orleans