Faculty Teaching Excellence Program

CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICES IN THE CLASSROOM: CREATING SPACE FOR LISTENING AND SPEAKING

Professor Deborah Haynes, Art and Art History & Libby Residential Academic Program Director
Professor Michael Zimmerman, Philosophy, Director, Center for the Humanities and the Arts

In our era of speed, multi-tasking, and continuously interrupted attention, many of us know how difficult it is to concentrate when someone else is giving a lecture or making a presentation. Frequently, we are talking to ourselves about the past or future, rather than listening to what is being said. The same is true of many of our students. We assume that because they are not talking out loud, they are actually listening, but this may not be the case. There are many techniques that can enable students--and teachers--to become more fully present. One reason that students may not engage in class discussion is that they do not know how to concentrate or pay attention. If we can help to create conditions needed for mindful listening and observing, one consequence might be better participation as well.

The program will be led by Deborah J. Haynes (Art and Art History & Libby Residential Academic Program Director) and Michael Zimmerman (Philosophy & CHA Director), both of whom are award winning teachers who have made use of contemplative practices in their teaching. In addition to presentations by Haynes and Zimmerman, there will be time for dialogue and experience with several mindfulness practices.

This event will be held in ATLAS 200.