Join us for this episode of BaseCamp Live, where Davies Owens interviews Chris Hall, a teacher, author, and founder of Always Learning Education. Chris discusses the significance of the servile or common arts and their connection to the liberal arts, a distinction that classical educators often overlook. A life guided by classical principles involves more than just studying the great books; we must genuinely embody our virtues, which sometimes occurs through hands-on experiences.

Drawing on the wisdom of Hugh of St. Victor, Matthew Crawford, and John Milton, Chris delves into practical applications of ancient knowledge. For example, he suggests inviting students to visit a real forge after reading about one in a novel. Furthermore, he poses the question of how education might differ if we could involve parents, grandparents, and even janitors in teaching about the importance of hands-on work. Lastly, explore the practical aspects of incorporating these educational practices at home through chores, cooking, and adventuring. Join Davies and Chris as they discuss the importance of engaging the hands, head, and heart in learning.

Biography: Chris Hall

Chris Hall has a BA in philosophy from Gettysburg College and an MAT in elementary education from Towson University. He has been a classroom educator and administrator for 25 years, having served in public, independent, and classical schools. Along with his professional pedigree, he is a lifelong practitioner of several of the common arts profiled in this book, and the founder of Always Learning Education, an organization dedicated to teaching, learning, and propagating the common arts. He lives on a small, homesteaded farm in central Virginia with his wife and three homeschooled sons.