Virtual Commons - Bridgewater State University

Poster: Using Contemplative Practices to Prepare for and Reflect on Challenging Situations and Cross Cultural Engagement in Service-Learning and Professional Settings

Moakley Atrium

Contemplative practices have been found to be effective in helping students focus their attention and manage their emotions in order to deepen their learning and to perform more effectively in a variety of settings. Contemplative practices may include meditation, guided imagery, journaling and use of the arts. This poster presents data and case studies using contemplative practices as a teaching tool and skill development strategy with students who are engaged in service-learning activities and internships. Arthur Chickering’s student development theory serves as the framework for this example of the scholarship of teaching and learning used in service-learning courses. The findings of this research may be helpful for faculty and staff in a variety of disciplines who are seeking to use contemplative practices and engaged learning strategies with their students. Particular emphasis will be given to addressing challenging situations and cross cultural engagement as students prepare for professional roles and settings.