Mia Favini ’27

Joyce Liu ’27

Originally introduced at the Phillips Exeter Academy by philanthropist Edward Harkness, the Harkness Method is a pedagogical technique that encourages discussion-based learning by having students sit face-to-face around a large, oval table. This method is prevalent in humanities subjects that benefit from open-ended discussions and helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. Yet, some complaints have risen about the convenience and effectiveness of these tables alongside praise.

Positives

Tony Herman, Upper School English Teacher, believes that the Harkness Table benefits class discussions. “The Harkness Table is the family dinner table. The great thing about it is that instead of the focal point being the teacher at the front of the classroom, the teacher is involved in the discussion.” Herman expands his point of view by saying the table “allows the students to dig into the text while the teacher just facilitates.” 

The table not only serves as a tool to guide the students into a productive conversation but also trains the students to lead a discussion similar to one a teacher would conduct. This point is supported by Upper School English Teacher Julia Workman, who feels that the Harkness Table “deemphasizes the role of the teacher as the giver of all knowledge and information, and emphasizes the importance of the student’s voice.” Allowing students to lead discussions promotes more participation and the exchange of a diverse range of perspectives rather than perpetuating the belief that only the teacher holds the correct opinion.  

Students, too, have positive feedback when asked for their judgment on the Harkness Table. Grace Rall ’25 believes, “[Harkness Tables] foster a community feel and facilitate excellent discussions. It feels more like a conversation, and people are more willing to share their insights.” Because of this conversational setting, Rall notes, “It’s easier to share your opinions when looking at people and sitting in a circle, compared to a lecture style classroom where you have to raise your hand and wait to be called on. It helps you share more perspectives than you would in other environments.” Many seem to agree with the idea of the table being welcoming. Jordan Shanahan ’26 echoes Herman’s words: “It’s like we’re sitting at a family dinner table. We’re all just talking together.”

TABLE TALK: The Harkness Table provides the perfect space for collaboration and discussion to come alive as the students and teachers sit at the same level.
Photo courtesy of Libby Flaisher ’25

Negatives

On the other hand, difficulties, such as space, occur when using the Harkness Table. Christopher McCreary, Upper School English Teacher, notes that depending on the class size, a teacher may not be able to sit at the table. “I think if a Harkness Table is full, it’s very tight. Ideally, I would like to have a seat at the table, depending on how many people are put in the class.” Crowdedness around the table, however, is arguably a scheduling issue and not necessarily dependent on whether or not the classroom has a Harkness Table. Still, a teacher standing during discussions could subtly reinforce students’ perception of them as a designated leader and diminish the open-ended atmosphere that the Harkness Table aims to create. 

For students, issues with using the Harkness Table also involve its lack of space. When taking assessments in rooms with the table, students must typically use the pull-out tables. These offer students to have their own privacy, but many students find that using the pull-out tables can be bothersome due to their size and configuration. Often, the size of the table also leads to cramped elbows and claustrophobic testing conditions, and the pull-out sliders do not accommodate more than a couple of pieces of paper. Cassidy Ott ’25 adds, “If a teacher is projecting on a screen, those facing the opposing side must turn around.” However, she believes the table’s positive impacts during discussions outweigh these spacing issues.
The Harkness Table fosters open discussions and empowers students to lead. Despite minor logistical challenges, its benefits in building communication and critical thinking skills are evident. Teachers and students alike find it valuable for creating an inclusive, engaging learning environment. Adding this powerful, collaborative approach to more classrooms could transform learning and inspire even deeper engagement.

TABLES AND TESTING: Student takes test on the pull out under the Harkness Table.
Photo courtesy of Libby Flaisher ’25