Systemic Approach to Incusive Learning

Aims of the tool

The aims of this booklet are:
-to introduce the systemic approach in youth work and the basic principles that are at work in different types of systems
-to give insights into how belonging to a nation or a culture influences identity, behaviour, beliefs, etc.
-to give insights into some of the key 'ingredients' for creating an inclusive learning environment when different cultures and nations meet to learn from and about each other

Description of the tool

Belonging to various systems shapes our identity, beliefs, choices in life, acceptance of ourselves and others, and reflects our behaviour in every new group or a system we join through life. It also greatly influences who we include and perceive as the ‘one of us’, and who we exclude and perceive as the ‘others’ based on our own inner sense which is learnt through belonging to various systems throughout our life. The feeling of not belonging also has a great impact on an individual.

In the context of this booklet emphasis is on belonging to a culture or a nation, and on how to use this potential to create an inclusive learning environment or a system in which belonging to different culture or a nation is something that unites the individual members of a group, and does not divide.

By exploring this booklet, readers will learn about:
-the basics of the systemic approach and principles
-how to implement those principles in groups
-how belonging unconsciously guides one's behaviour, beliefs and the way of being
-how to see individuals as a part of as system
-how facilitators can create an inclusive environment which prioritizes the whole group
-how to become aware of own belonging and how it impacts identity
-how to work from the perspective of what unites the individual members of a group
-how to support learners by helping in an empowering way
-how to act beyond judgement and maintain neutrality
-how to be present and hold space for learning to happen