Mindfulness tecniches in the schools. Academic and personal development of its participants

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The purpose of Mindfulness is to arouse conscious attention in the present moment and so to achieve higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing. Its study and implementation has had therapeutic purposes in clinical settings, but it is something new in educational settings. In this paper the methodology of the ".b" is described, which used Mindfulness techniques with high school students. It consists of nine sessions where activities are performed to help keep the focus on body sensations in different situations –at breathe, eat, sit, and lie down or walk–. The material consists of sheets, who train a scattered mind, calm, recognition of negativity and concern and how to live with the difficulties without rejecting them. A review of studies about the implementation of Mindfulness programs obtains very positive results in personal and academic student development. Teachers have also shown decreased exhaustion, increase of compassion, improvements in the classroom organization, on team tasks and on interactions with students. Its implementation in schools is more effective among high-risk students, with a long-term practice, with the involvement and when teachers are trained and maintain continuity in their own practice. To ensure the success and quality of these programs, it is opts for a quality and applicable research –high number of participants, involving of the entire educational community, longitudinal results comparison in different countries and cultures, and the creation of specific instruments for each program–.