The Square is a space where learners come together and read key texts with fellow learners who share similar interests. All our engagements, at least initially, will take place online and depend on the participants` commitment to intellectual conversations and an understanding of the limitations and advantages of online forums. We subscribe to the following rules for the proper conduct of our sessions.
Participants are expected to attend all course sessions. If a participant misses two meetings or more without informing the course moderator, the moderator may recommend the participant be dropped from the rest of the course.
All participants are expected to switch on their cameras during the course sessions. As you would agree, it is difficult to communicate with a blank screen.
Participants are expected to switch off their microphone when others are speaking and turn it on when they wish to speak. Please ensure that you let your fellow participants finish expressing their thoughts and not interrupt them mid-speech.
The course moderator has the right to recommend that a participant be dropped from a course in case the participant creates problems in the smooth functioning of the course, and refuses to change their approach despite requests. Such a decision will be taken in the rarest of rare cases.
Participants are expected to understand that other people and their views might differ from theirs. All are expected to cultivate and show respect for the difference. The Square does not propagate any particular reading or understanding, but it certainly believes in the power of difference to leave us intellectually enriched.
The Square aims for a liberal and compassionate learning environment. It promotes conditions where we are free to express ourselves passionately, but are also willing to listen to others because they, too, might have something important to say.