Dialogic literary gatherings are excellent examples of successful family education. Data reveal that there are substantial positive effects on the students’ motivation and academic success.

These were the outcomes of research to be found in the INCLUD-ED Consortium Successful Educational Actions for Inclusion and Social Cohesion in Europe Springer Briefs in Education (2015). According to international assessments education is failing to reduce inequalities associated with socio-economic status. But scientific research with social impact in education shows the possibility of reversing this trend. There are educational actions, with a solid scientific basis, that have been shown to improve achievement and basic skills in many different contexts for all learners, especially for disadvantaged learners. Dialogic Gatherings, a Successful Educational Action identified by INCLUD-ED research (FP6, 2006–2011) has proven excellent results when applied in Science, Mathematics, Literature, Art and Music subjects.

Dive-in-Dialogue

ESHA is one of the consortium partners of the Dive-in-Dialogue project that promotes Dialogic Gatherings where people get together to discuss the best universal cultural and scientific knowledge. Imagine this open space providing the scientific knowledge with evidence of social impact and the free available educative resources that you can use in your school to implement Dialogic Gatherings. In a time where well-being is under pressure this approach is a refreshing and interesting, but most of all effective way of really making a difference towards motivation and a successful school career for young people.

In this project a transnational network is created with didactic resources and a platform to enable the scaleup, sustainability, and political impact of the practice.

Deep learning

Dialogic Gatherings can be used in the context of meaningful STEAM education. When bridging to the concept of storytelling and Creative Writing Labs, the engagement can get to the level of ‘Deep Learning’. Instead of learning facts and figures the students will be motivated, engaged and learn while using these didactic and organizational concepts that relate to open schooling and involve true societal issues.

Path of joy

ESHA is proud on how we develop transnational Dialogic Gatherings where students from all over Europe read, watch, listen and discuss together the best works of science, knowledge, and culture that humanity has created. It matches with the direction that our members, the school heads organizations throughout Europe, want to give education: well-being and equal chances for all.

It is up to school heads to enter pathways for innovation and development with the school teams that reflect chosen visions and have actual effects on reaching the goals that are set. But let’s not forget that leading and learning should also be a path of joy, so explore what Europe has to offer in pointing out some new, successful and realistic approaches!

Dive In Dialogue – The best universal culture and scientific knowledge at everyone’s reach!

By Petra van Haren
ESHA Director