Empathetic & reflexive facilitation in arts professional learning

During a Connected Arts Networks (CAN) professional learning session, guest speaker Dr. Bettina Love (2023) offered a guiding reminder: “Focus on the humans.” This message became a central influence in my development as an emerging leader within the CAN Teacher Leader Professional Learning Community (P LC). Through action research, I examined how intentionally approaching facilitation with empathy can strengthen professional learning experiences for arts educators. Drawing on anonymous participant feedback and reflective practice, I identified strategies that refined my facilitation and may support other arts facilitators seeking to deepen their impact. This article highlights how centering humanity in our work—through strengthened Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) practices, and through a shift from reflection to reflexivity—begins with acknowledging our own humanness. By embracing empathy and intentionality, arts leaders can cultivate more inclusive, responsive, and human centered professional learning environments.