Mindfulness

I know. I am the worst blogger. The move and starting the new job slowed me down. I am hoping to blog a little more this semester.

Mindfulness:
I have spent the last few weeks preparing for our upcoming faculty development on Experiential Learning and my engaged citizenship course on Community Development and Dialogue. I found myself surrounded by John Dewy, Kolb, and Margaret Wheatley readings. Reviewing experiential learning theory and pedagogical practices based on learning theory gets me really excited...my true geek nature is revealed or in Kolb's mind my converger learning style is invigorated when I see theory converted to concrete ideas and action.

The reflective observation portion of experiential learning has always been a challenge for me. Those who know me well know, I am a A-B-C person. In order to get to C, we must take the time to review, resee, and be mindful in our engagement with the community and student learning. One of Kolb's articles discussed more about mindfulness as a practice. We must strive for it on an on going basis. This term, I am challenging my students to take a vow of silence for a 5 hour period. No cell phone, facebook, talking....just silence! The goal is to practice mindfulness and reflective observation. In order to increase my own learning, I am joining them in this assignment. Adam will be thrilled. How long has been since you have been silent? What did you learn the last time you were? How did it impact your future actions?