How can active learning techniques be used to teach restorative justice?

1 What is active learning?

Active learning is based on the idea that students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process, rather than passively listening to lectures or reading texts. Active learning requires students to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their own learning. Active learning can take many forms, such as discussions, debates, simulations, games, case studies, problem-solving, role-plays, and projects.

3 How to design active learning activities for restorative justice?

Designing effective active learning activities for restorative justice involves several steps. First, you must identify the learning objectives and outcomes you want your students to achieve. Then, you should select the appropriate active learning technique that matches your objectives, content, and context. Afterwards, you must prepare the materials, instructions, and guidelines for the activity. During the activity, you should facilitate it and monitor the students' participation and progress. Finally, provide feedback and debriefing to the students and encourage them to share their reflections and insights.

4 Examples of active learning techniques for restorative justice

There are many active learning techniques that can be used to teach restorative justice, depending on the goals, time, and resources available. Discussion questions can stimulate students' thinking and dialogue on topics like harm, justice, and the goals of restorative justice. Debate can challenge students' assumptions and opinions about restorative justice. Simulation can immerse students in a realistic scenario involving restorative justice processes. Games can engage students in a fun way to learn empathy, active listening, apology, forgiveness, and restitution. Projects can encourage students to apply their learning of restorative justice to real-world issues. All of these activities can help students understand the concepts and skills of restorative justice.

5 Benefits of active learning for restorative justice

Active learning techniques can be used to teach restorative justice, providing many benefits for both students and teachers. These include enhancing motivation and engagement, improving comprehension and retention of knowledge, developing higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering social and emotional competencies, increasing awareness of diversity and inclusion, empowering students to become active citizens, and enriching teachers' pedagogical repertoire.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?