A lecture on the topic of “Family”
Survey has shown that the topic of family and relationships in groups is what interests but sometimes also distresses the pupils. Ivo Neuvirt gave his lectures in two 6th grade classes and satisfied the children’s expectations: they were discussing questions that are often particularly vital to children.
Ivo is always well prepared for the lectures during which he lets the children discuss important issues. First he puts questions to the children, only then does he express his own views. At the lecture, there were several issues that were being dealt with—the importance of a happy family, what I can do to improve the relationships, and finally, there is an anonymous questionnaire about “What I would like to change in my family”. Ivo discusses the answers with the children (unless a respondent does not want their opinion to be discussed).
Their cooperation is very personal and sensitive. Ivo demonstrates his empathy staying “ordinary”—what is ordinary about him is his clothing style, performance and the way he interacts with the children. This does not mean that the lecture is of poor quality. Its quality was appreciated by both of the teachers present.
It is very difficult for a lector to lead an open discussion with 6th grade pupils. It gets even more difficult if there are some bad-mannered pupils or isolated groups in the class. Ivo has done a lot of great job in this place and I believe that the lecture will bring the children a great satisfaction. There was also a discussion about forgiveness and unconditional acceptance relating to old, old story of the Prodigal Son. Everyone has different opinions on the story characters and their attitudes. That is the important part of the lecture—thinking and forming your opinions.
Petr Horacek, the Executive Director of INCZ
