Summary of "The full value contract for a safe learning environment"

Summary of “The Full Value Contract for a Safe Learning Environment”

Main Ideas and Concepts

Full Value Contract: A full value contract is a collective agreement created by individuals and groups to define behaviors that promote a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone involved.

Purpose: The contract establishes a shared understanding of behaviors that help participants feel safe, respected, and able to engage fully in learning activities.

Key Behaviors Identified: - Respect (highlighted as the overarching concept) - Safety - Listening - Responsibility - Trust - Communication - Patience - Being supportive and respectful when others speak

Activity Methodology

Participants work in small groups to: 1. Draw around one of their hands. 2. Write a word on each finger that represents a behavior important for a safe learning environment. 3. Share and discuss these words as a group to identify common themes. 4. Observe peers during activities to note effective safe behaviors and areas for improvement.

Spider’s Web Activity

Participants pass each other through a web without touching the web or previously used spaces.
This activity encourages trust, patience, communication, and careful attention to others’ safety.
Observers note behaviors that positively contribute to the safe learning environment.

Outcome

The agreed-upon words and behaviors form the full value contract, which can be referred to regularly in class to maintain and reinforce a safe learning space for all students.

Detailed Methodology / Instructions

Form Small Groups Participants divide into smaller groups for discussion.
Hand Outline Exercise
- Each participant draws around one of their hands on paper.
- On each finger, write a word that represents a behavior important for a safe learning environment.
Group Sharing
- Share the words and discuss common themes.
- Identify frequently mentioned behaviors (e.g., respect, trust).
Observation Task
- While some perform a task, others observe and note behaviors that promote safety and those that need improvement.
Spider’s Web Activity
- Participants start on one side of a web made from ropes or strings.
- They must pass each other through the web without touching it or reusing the same space.
- Focus on behaviors like patience, communication, and respect.
Reflection and Addition
- After the activity, participants reflect on observed behaviors and add any missing important behaviors (e.g., patience).
Create the Full Value Contract
- Compile the agreed behaviors into a contract.
- Use this contract regularly to guide classroom interactions and maintain a safe learning environment.

Speakers / Sources Featured

Primary Speaker / Facilitator: The instructor or facilitator leading the session and guiding participants through the full value contract process.
Participants: Group members who contribute words, participate in activities, and observe behaviors.

No specific names are provided.