471707-FS2025-0-Mindfulness and child development





Root number 471707
Semester FS2025
Type of course Seminar
Allocation to subject Psychology
Type of exam not defined
Title Mindfulness and child development
Description Content: Research on the effects of mindfulness in young people is now growing rapidly. Mindfulness can be defined as a particular way of paying attention to the present moment, characterized by a receptive and non-judgmental attitude (Kabat-Zinn, 1994). Amongst adults there is reasonably strong evidence for the positive impact of mindfulness-based practices (e.g., meditation, yoga, tai chi) on a wide range of mental and physical health outcomes, and on social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Fundamental principles of neuroscience suggest that mindfulness may have its greatest impact when behavioral and neural plasticity is particularly pronounced, i.e., in earlier stages of development. Therefore, research with children and adolescents exploring the implications of contemplative science for child development and education is highly promising.
This course provides an excellent opportunity to become familiar with relevant research questions and current research methods in mindfulness research. We will critically examine the empirical literature on mindfulness in school and education, and explore potential mechanisms as well as applications in specific contexts outside of school. In addition, there will be a hands-on component to the seminar where we will engage in short guided meditations.
Requirements: This seminar requires a high level of continuous and active participation. In each session (1 x 4 lessons and 3 x 6 lessons), an interactive exchange about the English literature is expected. In addition, students will take over part of each seminar session as experts in small groups. For the grading of the 5 ECTS, the small group work, a presentation of an empirical study as well as a written assignment will be considered. No more than 1 missed appointment (4 lessons)!
Literature: Selected articles (on Ilias).
Registration: Registration must be made through KSL. The registration is compulsory and cannot be cancelled or changed.
ILIAS-Link (Learning resource for course) Registrations are transmitted from CTS to ILIAS (no admission in ILIAS possible). ILIAS
Link to another web site Further information for this course
Lecturers Dr. Regula NeuenschwanderDean's Office of the Faculty of Human Sciences 
ECTS 5
Recognition as optional course possible Yes
Grading 1 to 6
 
Dates Monday 24/2/2025 10:00-14:00
Monday 31/3/2025 10:00-16:00
Tuesday 1/4/2025 10:00-16:00
Monday 12/5/2025 10:00-16:00
 
Rooms
 
Students please consult the detailed view for complete information on dates, rooms and planned podcasts.