Frequently Asked Questions

 

How are Circles created?

 Every Circle of Understanding is custom designed. We start by clarifying your goals and, where relevant, gathering baseline insights. Based on this, we propose a first selection of challenges. Together we choose the sequence, which is then refined in both language and content to fit your context perfectly. 

 

Are Circles fully online, or can they be blended?

 Circles of Understanding can run entirely online. Many organizations, however, choose a blended format with live sessions, mid-program check-ins, or group activities. All options are possible. We design the format in dialogue with you. 

 

How do you ensure confidentiality and psychological safety?

 Each Circle takes place in a strictly private online space, accessible only to participants. A silent moderator may be present: a teacher, coach, facilitator from your organization, or a certified confidant from the Understanding Academy. Before starting, all participants commit to a shared code of conduct.

This, combined with the nature of the challenges, creates an environment of trust, openness, psychological safety, and mutual respect. All data connected to a Circle, including personal information, is permanently deleted 30 days after the program ends.

 

 How do you keep participants engaged?

The topics themselves are highly relevant and therefore naturally motivating. Learning , , and  one another also boosts engagement: you’re in it together, and that creates positive peer pressure. And importantly: the challenges are enjoyable, sometimes even delightfully daring, which makes participation feel light and energizing.

  

How is student participation assessed?

 Circles of Understanding are rapidly growing in popularity in secondary and higher education. Student uploads effectively serve as a continuous assessment, which teachers and coaches can evaluate with ease. Some programs complement this with final presentations, either individually or in groups.