During the ten years that I have been a teacher, the words that have guided my professional development have been “student engagement.” I love English and I have always loved English but it has become evident to me, over the years, that not all of my students share this enthusiasm.

Three years ago, I was given an opportunity to participate in a writing workshop at Phillips Exeter Academy that introduced me to the possibilities of teaching around a Harkness table and it transformed the way that I think about my role in the classroom. Harkness education focuses on student centred, discussion based, collaborative learning. It is low-tech, community oriented and it truly engages students, with a wide variety of learning profiles, in the process of learning.