EDUCATION

Peace Studies Program :: Towards a Culture of Peace

An immersive experience where students spend time with the filmmaker to reflect on the three guiding questions in the film and work together to find positive, action-oriented solutions for today’s challenges, transcending politics and cliche approaches. We draw from the wisdom of film participants in their areas of expertise: psychology, philosophy, law, human rights and constructive activism.

    1. 💬 Breakout groups

    2. 🎤 Each group shares their definition(s) with the larger group

    3. 📽️ Watch answers from film participants (Part I)

    4. 💡 Group discussion

    1. Debate: two groups, selected randomly, each assigned one view to defend (Just war vs. Absolute Pacifism)

      1. 💬 Preparation time

      2. 🎤 Informal debate

    2. Reframing: things we have in common

      1. 💬 Groups separate to consider shared beliefs

      2. 🎤 Reconvene to share and make a list of things both groups have in common

    3. Peace through Peaceful Means

      1. Negative and Positive Peace (Absence of War vs. Presence of Justice)

      2. The Triangle of Violence (Cultural, Systemic, Direct)

      3. Reframing Conflict

    1. Watch Part III of film (The Call to Act)

    2. Peace heroes

    3. Positive peace initiatives and how to support and participate

Our Process

Purpose

We set our goals for this reflective time. We will work together to understand the challenges and find ways to engage positively and pro-actively.

Civil Dialogue Agreement

Before we start, we lay down the foundations of constructive, thoughtful dialogue.

Open Discussion

There is no dogma. We look at issues with an inquiring mind and open ears. We practice active listening and fact-based critical thinking.

Action

We conclude with practical possibilities in peace building, including excellent programs for leadership growth such as Sister Cities International, among others.

  • "The topic couldn’t be more timely or important."

    Dave Davies — Consultant, The Education Group

  • "The people you interviewed have such integrity and wisdom. "

    Glenys Quick — Educator

  • "It gives me hope, and makes me more aware of all the positive things going on."

    Juliette McCullough — Educator

LET’S WORK TOGETHER

CONTACT