Study circles have been with us since the earliest people gathered around the fire to share experiences, solve problems and make plans for the future. Canadian roots are found in civic and labour movements of the early 1900's. The modern study circle is highly developed in Sweden where one in five adults are reported to participate in at least one circle. Study circle programs are growing rapidly around the world through educational institutions, farm associations, literacy projects, community groups, churches and neighbourhoods. Topics range through national racial and cultural conflicts, statewide fiscal issues, community support for agriculture and neighbourhood book studies.

A study circle is usually made up of five to twenty people. Fewer than five makes it hard to have a good discussion and more than twenty makes it hard for everyone to be heard. They agree to meet several times to address a social or public issue or to study an academic, cultural or personal interest subject. Complex topics are broken down into manageable parts and controversial issues can be dealt with in depth. While single session programs can result in meaningful and productive dialogue, multiple sessions generate continuity and camaraderie within the group. Reading material and audio/visual aids stimulate dialogue from a common reference point.

There is no teacher in a study circle, but a facilitator who keeps the study focussed while moving in the direction chosen by the participants. The learning comes from the participants' involvement in the discussion and the study materials. Cooperation, participation, and respect are stressed so that the group can capitalize on the experience and wisdom of all its members. All viewpoints are taken seriously and each member has an equal opportunity to participate. The goal is to deepen understanding of an issue and awareness of the values that underlie opinions. Study circles often lead to social and political action.

Study circles can be used, as a complete program or as part of a larger program, in many situations: churches for bible study, community organizations to review past performance and plan future direction, political groups to identify issues and assess candidates, community councils to hear the needs of citizens and possible ways to meet them, special interest groups to share common problems and seek joint solutions.

An organizer selects the topic, develops the study material, recruits the participants, arranges the meetings and chooses a facilitator. The facilitator moderates the discussion, encouraging full participation while keeping on the topic. Communication skills strengthen as the participants listen respectfully to others, read or have read to them the study materials, consider the issue at hand in terms of their own values and experience and speak carefully to make their opinions clear to the group.

Study materials can consist of a few carefully selected discussion questions, an article or two with some thoughtful questions to spark discussion, books and videos or in-depth original material. Each situation is unique and study circle organizers adapt the basic format to suit their needs and goals.

As the name suggests, the group sits in a circle with or without tables. The meeting can take place anywhere that is comfortable, in a classroom, a meeting room or a living room. The facilitator may use a flip chart to record questions and comments. Refreshments add to the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

There is no one right way to do a study circle. The method is simple and suitable whether the discussion is for deeper understanding, for weighing options and making choices, for making recommendations that lead to action or for academic study.

Whatever kind of study circle you choose to do you will find it to be an exciting and satisfying experience. People get involved by choice and are willing to make a success of their learning opportunity.