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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