Our K-12 Approach

The best way to learn about our approach is to invite Third Ear Founder Alex Bryan to  your school for an introduction.

Our vision is to create an optimal learning environment by developing a school culture of emotional safety where everyone’s  needs are equally valued.

“Power will be shared by all, and compassion and empathy will not just be taught, but will become the very basis of our educational system.”

Usher in a New Day at Your School:

  • Intentional Communication is not just a skill set, it’s a consciousness.
  • The Principles & Practices if IC combine the concepts of Social Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence, compassion, empathy and cutting-edge thoughts on punishment and rewards, with the skills of non-violent communication and customized curriculum from the book “The No-Fault Classroom”.
  • This is a process of re-considering how the school is run.
  • Intentional Communication is a preventative model.
  • Rules will be replaced with mutual agreements, compliance will become true cooperation, and punishment will evolve into restorative justice.

What is Intentional Communication?

Intentional Communication is a practice that builds on an awareness of people’s basic human needs and values, a unique and powerful model of communication that helps us to stay connected to ourselves, each other and our common humanity when encountering the inevitable difficulties and conflicts that arise between us.

“Only when you can truly empathize – that is, clearly hear the basic human needs behind whatever someone is saying or doing – are you able to understand another.”

The founding of Intentional Communication

Intentional Communication was pioneered by Marshall B. Rosenberg, Ph.D., who in 1984 founded the non-profit Center for Nonviolent Communication. (www.cnvc.org). He is also author of “Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life.” Rosenberg began with the simple truth that everyone is doing the best they can, moment to moment, to meet their needs and thrive. He also recognized the great truth that we are all more alike in feelings and needs than we are different. He then logically concluded that life is most enjoyable and sustainable when everyone’s needs are equally valued – and equally met. Third Ear Project assists students and teachers in creating this culture shifting consciousness and environment.

Listening With Our Third Ear

Unfortunately many of us have become mired in habitual, reactive ways of  communicating. We often judge and criticize others rather than employing honesty and empathy: listening beyond the surface to give others the benefit of the doubt that they are simply doing their best in each moment to meet their needs. Intentional Communication not only trains us to elicit and recognize what is real for others, identifying deeper needs and values, it also helps us to tune into and express our own needs in a more authentic way.

“So yes, bullies – whether students, teachers, parents or staff – relax. Your needs too, will be heard and understood.”

It is this shift which can provide a deeper awareness and connection. When we are listening and speaking from a place of compassion, which takes practice, we are neither doormats nor bullies. Rather, we join in an equal partnership with a singular goal: to promote connection and understanding. By working with youth, and helping teachers to model this behavior, Third Ear Project helps create optimal learning environments and more satisfied people.

A Culture Shift in Your School, Students, and Life

In the past, practitioners of Intentional Communication have used the practice to heal relationships and break defeating patterns in businesses, hospitals, prisons, the government, the military, and within families. The model has traveled globally, both in western and southern hemispheres and in such hot spots as Bosnia, Sri Lanka, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, the Middle East, Serbia and Columbia.

Demonstrated Success

Third Ear Project’s passion and outreach focus is bringing Intentional Communication into our school system. We have proven success in improving the environment for student, teacher and administration – leading not only to a learning environment that works, but to a living environment where everyone’s needs are being met.

Bring Third Ear Project to Your School

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