Increasingly, social work educators introduce the thoughts of Parker Palmer into their discussions of teaching methodology, course content, and the occupation of teaching. While not himself a social worker, Palmer's thoughts about teaching, on creating a “space” or conditions within which people can learn and change, and on the spiritual and relational aspects of human learning resonate with many social work educators. Parker Palmer is a writer, consultant, and lecturer who addresses issues in education, spirituality, community, and social change. He is a senior associate of the American Association for Higher Education, senior advisor to the Fetzer Institute, and the author of such books as To Know as We Are Known, Let Your life Speak, The Courage to Teach, The Active Life, and The Company of Strangers. Palmer has received five honorary doctorates for his writing and numerous other awards. He resides in Madison, Wisconsin where he is also a member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). This interview was conducted to elicit Palmer's thoughts on teaching, learning, relating, and the academic preparation of social workers and took place on a cold and dreary late winter afternoon at his home in Madison. A range of subjects was discussed and he was quite gracious and generous with his time.
Book Review: The Courage to Teach by Parker Palmer