Nonviolent Communication in Education:
Fostering Connection and Growth
Traditionally, schools have not given much space to language as a way for students to express their inner world, feelings and needs. Teaching has often focused more on adaptation and obedience than on students’ inner experiences.
Supporting students’ social and emotional development does not conflict with the school’s core task of conveying knowledge. On the contrary, these aims can strengthen each other. Communication plays an important role in learning and not all communication contributes to learning. NVC brings clarity to this differentiation and gives guidance on how to bring conscious communication to practice in all our relationships and settings.
What is Nonviolent Communication (NVC)?
The objective of Nonviolent Communication practice in schools is to create life-serving learning communities based on mutually respectful relationships between students, teachers, administrators and parents.
“I am convinced that the cause of violence lies in the way we have learned to think, communicate, and use power. NVC helps us transform these patterns and reconnect with our natural capacity for empathy and compassion.”
— Marshall B. Rosenberg
Why NVC Matters in Education
- Foster emotional intelligence and self-awareness
- Support collaborative problem-solving among teachers and students
- Care for teacher-student relationships and classroom climate
- Establish mutual respect and understanding
- Role-model inclusion and cooperation
- Resolve conflicts and prevent or de-escalate violence
Mutual Education Labs: Practice with Us
To put these principles into practice, our network organizes Mutual Education Learning Labs — international events where educators learn together about NVC and mutual learning.
These events continue the legacy of Marshall B. Rosenberg (1934-2015), founder of Nonviolent Communication, and his commitment to education. Designed to integrate essential life skills into school culture, through the principals and practice of Nonviolent Communication.