Harry Discovers Reality: A Beginning Teacher's Experience With Harry

Abstract

Introduction:  Philosophical Inquiry worked well at summer school with a group of highly motivated graduated students and an expert facilitator.  Could it also work with eleven-year-olds and a novice teacher?  One teacher's beginning experience says yes.  A first attempt at use has several requirements: 1) Select, class, time and procedure; 2) Document value of the program to satisfy educational mandates and to meet anticipated objections; 3) Approach administration for approval.  Reactions of the students and teacher are recorded.  Harry is believable and there is enthusiasm.  It's a challenge to continue but well worth it.  Drawbacks are effort, time and discussion procedure.  Suggestions for meeting these are given.  Advantages outweigh challenges.  Students like to talk about what they think.  Students with poor writing skills are often the most verbally articulate.  Respect for another's ideas affects the social groups of this small (21) class.