Workshop: Mindfulness in the Classroom
A UM Teacher Reflection and Recharge Week Activity
Description of Workshop
Even before the pandemic, I noticed that my students would often come to class distracted and anxious, which is a difficult space to learn (and teach) in! I spent time thinking about how I could change my teaching to create a safe, nurturing space for my students in which they could learn effectively. I concluded that one of the most useful things I could do is to give my students the tools to focus and quieten their minds and emotions, and so I decided to include two minutes of mindful breathing meditation at the start of each class. The response from my students was overwhelmingly positive, and I noticed that they have a longer attention spans than my previous classes. Many students went on to establish their own regular mindfulness routine, which they reported helped them in many aspects of their lives, not just studying.
In this workshop we’ll
- …do several different mindfulness exercises
- …discuss how to introduce mindfulness to students
- …talk about how to run a meditation with students
- …brainstorm options for what to do while we’re also teaching online
This activity will be offered on-campus (at EDLAB) on the 10th of January 2022 from 13.30-15.30 CET and you can sign up below.
Intended Learning Outcomes
After the session, you will be able to:
… try a variety of mindful techniques for yourself, to see what works best for you,
… discuss mindfulness with your students,
… prepare and lead a short mindful meditation with your students.
About the trainer
Claire Blackman is a mathematics and physics lecturer in the Maastricht Science Programme, which she joined in January 2021. Before that, she was a mathematics lecturer at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, where her focus was on developing teaching environments to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds or with mathematics anxiety. She is completing a course in Group Analytic Studies, and has a Master’s in Mathematics and a PhD in Astrophysics. She also has an adorable dog named Freddy and a piano, both of which help her stay sane in these trying times!
PLEASE NOTE that this workshop is planned to take place on-campus at EDLAB and you will receive an outlook invitation prior to the event with the final details. If the rules and regulations regarding COVID-19 change, we will inform you ASAP. If you already have concerns joining an on-campus activity, please contact us via e-mail: edlab-edservices@maastrichtuniversity.nl
Costs & cancellations
EDLAB is offering you this session free of charge.
We have however, paid to develop this session with the trainer, so if you sign up but cannot attend, please give us at least 5 days’ notice so that we can offer your spot to someone else. Cancellation without 5 days’ notice, or failure to show up may result in your department being charged the full cost price.
EDLAB reserves the right to postpone this event should a minimum of 6 participants not be reached.