Empowering through Harkness
At Pacific Ridge, everyone gets a seat at the table and finds their voice through Harkness. This teaching method, created by Edward Harkness and used by top independent schools and colleges, challenges students to sit at the center of their education. Classmates gather around oval “Harkness” tables designed to facilitate conversation and educational exploration.
Confidence
Teachers guide conversations by posing topics, asking questions and facilitating the participation of all students. Students have more opportunity to develop independent initiative, public speaking, and intellectual risk-taking through Harkness learning.
Critical Thinking
Our teaching style empowers students to engage with challenging material while exploring, questioning and honing their own thinking. Each student is heard and actively included to offer the space to develop mental agility and effective articulation of thought.
Broadened Perspective Communication Every student’s voice is heard and respected in Harkness. Classmates learn the value of understanding varying experiences and how to engage with empathy and curiosity.
Sitting facing peers and engaging in productive discourse, students learn the principles of communication. Teachers offer insight and guidance, promoteing active listening and collaboration, and encouraging students to find their unique voice.