What is a Philosothon?

A Philosothon is an event that encourages school students to investigate ethical and philosophical questions in the context of ‘communities of inquiry’. Participating in the event helps students to develop higher order thinking and communication skills through a series of discussions with students from other schools. These discussions are facilitated by philosophy teachers and adjudicated by a panel of educators. While there is an element of competition in a Philosothon, it aims to promote a sense of community by developing a shared understanding in a spirit of cooperation. It also develops skills in inquiry-based learning, ethical reasoning, higher-order reflective thinking and a search for meaning through dialogue about open questions and contestable concepts.

Students from throughout Australasia have a unique opportunity to engage with other students interested in philosophical inquiry. Eight students from each school participate over two days, (two aged 14, two aged 15, two aged 16 & two open year level students).

Students participate in Community of Inquiries, one student from each school in each group. Eight groups occurred simultaneously. Each group has a facilitator and a judge. Each COI runs 40 minutes. Invitations to participate in the Australasian Philosothon are sent to the winning schools from each regional Philosothon.

Read more about Philosothons on Wikipedia

Dr Kaz Bland – Organiser