RESEARCH POSTER PRESENTATION DESIGN © 2015
Louise Breheny BSc.( UNSW) Post Grad Physio( Usyd), M Education( UNSW) Lecturer- Facilitator Phase 1 Faculty of Medicine UNSW SYDNEY NSW 2052 AUSTRALIA E: l. breheny @ unsw. edu. au
Mindfulne
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation( MM) practice has grown significantly in Western cultures over the past few decades. MM refers to a practice of being aware of the present, and of letting go of one ' s thoughts, emotions to be in the present to enhance clear thinking and a sense of well being.( Kabat-Zinn). This practice is supported by considerable evidence that shows the benefits of regular practice for stress reduction, reduced anxiety and improved focus, and overall, well-being, and within medical student cohorts( Shappiro et. al., 1998) My interest in mindfulness has developed over the past few years with my own regular training and practice, and in exploring growing research around the use of MM in educational settings, focussed on undergraduate university students. As educators in tertiary institutions, we know that a significant percentage of students experience various levels of stress, anxiety, and lack of motivation during their studies, balancing work, study, home, and social engagement( Jensen et. Al. 2013, Mrazek et al. 2013). My initiatives aim to enhance students’ well-being and sense of support and engagement within the small group learning environment.
Aims
As a facilitator working with medical students in scenariobased learning( SBL) classes in Phase 1, my aim is to to create a more relaxed and engaging learning environment. In addition, as a keen photographer I aim to use photo elicitation to encourage reflection, rapport building and facilitate communication as a segue to learning( Pain, 2012). At the beginning of each SBL class one of my portfolio of images of nature and calm environments is presented prior to the class facilitation slides. SBL classes are very busy with tasks to cover, and it is important to be aware of time constraints and adding in extra elements that will well into the learning session.
Moments
Initiatives
• 3-minute guided mindful meditation sessions into several of the early Phase 1 SG classes at the commencement of class activities, using Apps such as‘ Calm’, UCLA( University of California LA) Mindfulness, etc., including nature sounds and meditation gongs.
• Linking personal photographic nature images as a theme within the sessions
• Communicating mid- term with individual students to seek feedback and check in on their well being.
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