Although student-centered, discussion-based learning is at the heart of most Middle School classes at The Country School, it’s now official. Following in the footsteps of Phillips Exeter Academy, Middle School teachers will employ the Harkness method in their classes.

In 1930 philanthropist Edward Harkness suggested to Exeter's Principal Lewis Perry how his funds could best be used. Harkness envisioned a group of students and one teacher seated at an oval table, discussing the subject at hand. And so began the Harkness method.

This method teaches students about leadership (one of Country School’s signature programs), about speaking up as well as listening to others, and about supporting each other. This pedagogy is an exercise in collaboration and a development of ideas, providing all students with a chance to share their voices and practice empathy. Teachers pose big-picture or essential questions prior to discussion so students can prepare for the next day. Both teachers and students welcome silence during their discussions. Students take time to digest what their peers say before contributing. “Wait time” takes on a whole new meaning for teachers. The Harkness method encourages a conversation among group members; it is not a back-and-forth Q and A between teacher and student.

Head of School John D. Fixx’s experience at previous schools using Harkness Tables as well as the enthusiasm of some Country School teachers who already engage the students in Harkness fashion encouraged him to formalize the program. “Teachers already organize and arrange their student desks and tables in circle or semi-circle fashion and bring children down to the rug to share and listen empathetically. That is using aspects of the Harkness Method of instruction,” notes Fixx. Last summer, a Middle School teacher attended Exeter's week-long Harkness training, returning to campus with tools and techniques to enhance teaching and learning through discussion.

The project began in earnest at last year’s school auction when past and present Country School families, faculty and staff contributed $4,200 specifically for a Harkness table. Next, Country School parent and expert woodworker James Wurzbach shared his time and talent, crafting the school’s table with wood harvested from a white oak that had stood for decades on campus in front of the Primary School. An appreciative parent who is grateful to the faculty for how his child was educated and then graduated successfully has donated the chairs that will surround it.

Beginning in a few short weeks, Middle School history classes as well as Board meetings and Faculty and Staff meetings will be held around the new table. Muses Fixx, “Maybe the Harkness Method of engagement will shape those adult explorations and conversations, as well.”

Founded in 1955, The Country School serves 215 students in PreSchool to Grade 8 on its 23-acre campus in Madison. Learn more about The Country School at www.thecountryschool.org.