CoursesMindfulness and Human Development
EDUC 251-001

Mindfulness and Human Development

This course will introduce the student to the many ways in which mindfulness is currently being implemented to support the health and success of students of all ages.  Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), in particular, which utilizes secularized practices from Asian and South Asian traditions for the remediation of various health concerns, has revolutionized behavioral medicine, and the scientific evaluation of MBSR has shed new light on the bio-mechanical pathways linking mind and body.

Thursdays, 1:45 PM – 4:45 PM

This course will:

  1. explore fundamental principles underlying mindfulness,
  2. the scientific data on its effects, and
  3. the ways in which mindfulness is being applied to educational settings.

 

Through readings and class discussions, it is intended that students will acquire a deep appreciation for how the contemporary exploration of mindfulness is changing the way we understand the human mind, the interface between mind and body, and the tools at our disposal to promote well-being as well as to address dysfunction. Attendance is mandatory and keeping up with readings is important.  Although I will present you with a lot of information for which you are responsible, I encourage you to find answers to your own questions. The experience of the search for answers transmutes into new knowledge. My goal is to guide you in a journey of discovery and to help you think for yourselves. Some of this experience will transpire in class discussions, so be sure to be here and be prepared.  We will have the opportunity to practice mindfulness and learn mindfulness-based skills that you can practice on your own.

Working Syllabus

Additional information about the course will be posted as it becomes available.

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