Abstract:

Experiential Learning is an innovative pedagogical process in which students learn through a hands-on activity. In this workshop and demonstration, we brainstorm some ways to add an experiential learning component in the teaching of Early Modern Philosophy that elucidates the comprehension of an author’s argument or concept. I discuss some case-studies that early modern specialists have pursued: cooking some of Sor Juana’s recipes, participating in an observational program from the Astroleague, citizen science, holding a mock-trial to apply concepts of probability and testimony, and the “plain-vanilla method” of philosophical inquiry. I will demonstrate how to include a “Philosophy in Nature” session either as part of a class or as a community engagement exercise.

What is Philosophy in Nature?

Philosophy in Nature is a public philosophy programming series founded by Dr. Stophia Stone of Wisdom’s Edge Foundation. Philosophy in Nature typically runs 60-75 minutes with roughly 20 participants and with a theme, such as “trees,” “stars,” or “animals”. It begins with a method of inquiry by The Uehiro Academy for Philosophy and Ethics in Education, called the “the plain vanilla method.” Participants take turns reading passages from philosophers, poets, historians, theologians, scientists, and more on the theme and later formulate a question using a ‘good thinkers toolkit.’ These are then written down and displayed on a whiteboard. After participants vote by raise-of-hands on the question to discuss, a conversation on the winning question ensues, with a community ball tossed around to encourage everyone’s input. Once an hour or so passes, this is followed by journaling or watercolor painting. This serves multiple purposes: it is an ice-breaker, it dovetails with the passages provided and deepens participants’ engagement, and it incentivizes participants to return and bring their journals or watercolor pads with them. This pop-up could be specific to TEMPO participants, so instead of watercoloring, we could discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the method and how to adapt it so that it fits different institutional and student needs. Materials needed include a ball, portable whiteboard, and washable or dry-erase markers. The full length of this workshop and demonstration could range between 45 to 75 minutes, but definitely and ideally less than 120 minutes.