BETWEEN WORD AND REFLECTION: THE CONVERSATION CIRCLE MEDIATED BY DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AS A PHILOSOPHICAL EXPERIENCE OF KNOWLEDGE CONSTRUCTION IN BASIC EDUCATION

Abstract

This article discusses the conversation circle as a philosophical experience of knowledge construction in Basic Education, while also considering the possibilities opened up by the mediation of digital technologies. Based on qualitative bibliographic research, the study revisits the dialogical tradition of philosophical thought, from Socratic maieutics, as presented by Plato, to Paulo Freire’s dialogical pedagogy, and connects it to the concept of the community of inquiry developed by Matthew Lipman. The discussion also engages with Walter Kohan, who problematizes the historical silencing of children and young people as thinking subjects, and with Dermeval Saviani, particularly regarding the need for radicality, rigor, and comprehensiveness in philosophical reflection. Finally, drawing on Pierre Lévy’s concept of collective intelligence, the article discusses how digital mediation can enhance horizontality and democratic participation in conversation circles, giving visibility to historically silenced voices. The reflections developed throughout the study demonstrate that the conversation circle, grounded in the philosophical tradition of dialogue and enhanced by digital technologies, contributes to the recognition of individuals’ experiences and to the strengthening of more critical and democratic educational practices committed to listening to and valuing voices within the school environment.