Call for Chapters: Juggling Education in the 21st Century: Exploring the Art and Science of Juggling Pedagogy

 

The International Jugglers’ Association (IJA) and Modern Vaudeville Press (MVP) are collaborating to publish an exciting new book on juggling education.

This project will explore the diverse methodologies and philosophies within the world of juggling education. 

What is this book?

This collection of essays will feature contributions from juggling educators from around the world to give a comprehensive look at the strategies, techniques, and theories shaping current juggling education.

The book will be divided into two sections:

  1. Long-form essays providing deep dives into specific aspects of juggling pedagogy.
  2. Short-form essays and conversations offering thoughts and ideas on the skill of teaching juggling.

Why does this matter?
While juggling has often been studied through the lens of neuroscience or skill acquisition, little has been written about how we actually teach juggling and why certain approaches work better for certain learners from practitioners in the field. This book will provide:

  • A resource for jugglers looking to develop inclusive, effective teaching practices.
  • A platform to highlight the voices of juggling educators across all fields of juggling: Art, Sport, Flow, Hobby, Professional, and more.
  • A starting point for further research and conversations.

Who should contribute?

We’re looking for educators from all corners of the juggling world. Whether you teach juggling in schools, circus programs, community workshops, online platforms, or through other methodologies/modes, we invite you to submit a proposal.

What Chapter Will You Write?

We want this book to reflect the rich diversity of experiences and expertise within the juggling education community. 

Here are just a few questions to spark your imagination:

  • How do you approach teaching juggling in your unique context (e.g., schools, circuses, workshops, online platforms)?
  • Have you developed a particular methodology, philosophy, or curriculum that works especially well?
  • How does juggling education promote skills beyond juggling, such as physical coordination, cognitive development, or emotional growth?
  • What challenges have you faced in making juggling accessible to diverse audiences, and how have you overcome them?
  • How has juggling education evolved in the 21st century, and what role do digital tools or new technologies play in teaching?
  • How do cultural or historical perspectives inform your teaching methods?

What to Include in Your Proposal

When submitting your chapter idea please include:

  • Name:
  • Address:
  • Brief Bio: A bio that outlines your connection to juggling education. (No longer than 150 words)
  • Long-form or Short-form: Will you write a long-form essay (3,000–5,000 words) or a short-form essay (1,000–2,000 words). (Note: Final essay is not needed for the proposal!)
  • Your focus: What topic, question, or aspect of juggling education will your chapter address?
  • Your approach: Will your chapter be a personal narrative, research-based analysis, practical guide, or something else?
  • Your format: While chapters can be traditional essay formats, we also welcome proposals of creative formats such as a published conversation between author and educator. 
  • Language: Submissions in English or Spanish are welcome (translation services available for selected chapters).
  • Timeline: Proposals are due by April 30, 2025.

Final Chapter Submission Details

If selected:

  1. Authors will be notified and sign an agreement no later than June 1, 2025 with the IJA allowing us use of Author’s chapter in this book 
  2. Authors will have until August 1, 2025 to write essays. 
  3. Compensation: Writers will receive a flat payment for their contribution. Long-form essays will receive a $200 stipend. Short-form essays will receive a $75 stipend. Contributors will also be sent a complimentary copy of the published book. (Tentative Release Date December 2025.)

How to Apply

Please submit your proposal (outlined above) to yja@juggle.org no later than April 30, 2025.

Questions or want to talk through some thoughts? Contact yja@juggle.org.