Authors:Christine Ann Walsh, Alison Grittner, Mihaela Slabé, Ana Herrera, Stacey Squires Abstract: Drawing on qualitative arts-based methodologies within a community development framework, we explore community artmaking as an analytical approach to understanding processes of belonging, inclusion, and community-making in the context of transitional housing with supportive services, including an embedded art hive, in Calgary, Canada. By providing free access to art, art hives act as a site for social change through accessibility and community participation, fostering more robust and inclusive communities through creativity. We conducted a series of photovoice and arts-based elicitation interviews with residents and key informant interviews, co-facilitated by social work research assistants and professional artists to understand the role of the Art Hive in contributing to belonging and social inclusion for residents. Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed three salient benefits: (1) building community within the shelter, (2) cultivating wider community connections, and (3) promoting wellness for residents. Strategies for successfully incorporating and sustaining art hives in transitional housing were proposed by study participants in relation to service delivery. Keywords:Article
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From Conflict to Classroom: Understanding School-Community-Family Partnerships in conflict-affect Myanmar
Authors:Lugyi Abstract: This study explores how schools, communities, and families in Pekon Township, Myanmar, collaborate to sustain education amidst conflict. Being confronted with challenges including violence and displacement, Pekon township has witnessed the establishment of over 80 community schools, providing education to over 12,000 students. The study explores through interviews and group discussions uncovering strategies such as flexible learning schedules, emotional well-being support, and community-led initiatives to ensure students' educational and emotional well-being. The findings highlight the importance of resilience, adaptive learning, and local leadership in overcoming educational barriers. This research contributes valuable insights into sustaining education in conflict-affected areas, emphasizing the critical role of community involvement and innovative practices in navigating adversity. Keywords:Case Study PubDate: 2024-07-12 DOI: 10.18533/8062pr96
Authors:Ronald Gordon Abstract: While Karl Jaspers, M.D. (1883-1969) is well-known as a pioneering psychopathologist and prominent existential philosopher, he is rarely recognized as a philosophical mystic, nor did he claim such a title. It is the thesis of this paper that more than a half-century after his passing, it is finally time to also recognize Jaspers’ role explicitly as what Underhill termed that of the “practical mystic,” though in Jaspers’ case it would seem more fitting to propose the title of “philosophical practical mystic.” An attempt is made to support this claim, and to suggest why might Jaspers have been reluctant to embrace such designation during his academic career, especially in light of his lack of a Ph.D. in philosophy; his attempt to survive with his Jewish wife under the Nazi regime in Germany; and his core values of existential in-the-worldness, ongoing dialogue with other human beings, and personal freedom from ecclesiastical religious doctrines, artifacts, and associations. Keywords:Article PubDate: 2024-06-06 DOI: 10.18533/kqpm5a49
Authors:Liana Cheney Abstract: This essay describes the symbolism in the recently discovered painting by Camilla Guerrieri Nati (1628–94), an Italian painter from the seventeenth century. The painting portrays Vittoria della Rovere, Grand Duchess of Tuscany, a remarkable woman who successfully governed Tuscany with her exceptional qualities of being well-educated, pious, valiant, and a historical ruler. Camilla's depiction of Vittoria della Rovere in the portrait is magnificent, as she captures her patron's spiritual beauty and wisdom. Vittoria della Rovere's significant contributions to expanding cultural diplomacy and her passion for the Fine Arts and popular art make her an admirable historical figure. She also created an environment for women to develop their literary skills and express themselves creatively, a remarkable achievement during those times. The Altomani Portrait of Vittoria della Rovere is a testament to Camilla Guerrieri's artistic talent and her patron's remarkable legacy. Keywords:Article
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Teachers’ Reflections On Their Own Experience Of Teaching Gifted Students In Homogenous Classes
Authors:Faisal Yahya Alamiri First page: 10 Abstract: This study aimed to explore teachers’ reflections on their own experiences in teaching gifted students in homogenous classes. The study employed the qualitative research design through the focus group interview method which included the focus group discussions to collect the qualitative data from six primary school teachers, who had over three years of experience in teaching gifted students in homogenous classes. The overall findings indicated the value of teachers’ reflection on evaluating their own experiences and identifying the critical challenges they observed. Although teachers supported the additional lessons of enrichment and curriculum compacting as the most valuable experience, the findings showed the extent to which teachers became concerned about the utilization of the same curriculum content, assessment, and learning outcomes which are not different from heterogenous classes. Applying enrichment in all subjects for gifted students in mixed-ability classes needs to be considered as possible alternative option to homogenous classes. The findings raised critical challenges of homogenous classes regarding the social interaction of gifted students, parental involvement, and counseling services. Implications and recommendations for future research and practice are offered. Keywords:Article PubDate: 2024-04-12 DOI: 10.18533/p87rz390