Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description A purpose of this module is to introduce students to developments where research in the worlds of mindfulness and neuroscience have met in the branch of science known as neuroplasticity. The concept of neuroplasticity in adults is a new and exciting area of science. It highlights that our brain continues to be reshaped throughout our lives by both our experiences and our thoughts. We now know that it is the focus of our awareness that determines which neural connections of the brain are strengthened or weakened. In other words, the more we worry or stress, the better we become at doing so. Equally, practising being focused and calm, strengthens these neural pathways. A growing body of neuroscientific research shows that practising mindfulness regularly can positively affect a number of brain areas including those related to stress and emotion regulation. Neuroscientific research also demonstrates how practising gratitude can improve wellbeing. Developing a regular, formal practice of gratitude causes activation of multiple brain areas, lighting up parts of the brain's reward pathways and the hypothalamus. The practise of gratitude can boost the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin and improve overall wellbeing. Great strides have been made in recent years in the development of mindfulness-based school programmes, supporting personal health education policies in many countries worldwide. In a review of the evidence and policy context, Weare (2013) finds that mindfulness “when well taught and when practised regularly has been shown to be capable of improving mental health and wellbeing, mood, self-esteem, self-regulation, positive behaviour and academic learning.” (p 2). While this module does not train participants as mindfulness teachers, students are introduced to a range of mindfulness resources for use in primary classrooms. They learn how best to use these resources productively and how to critically evaluate free resources for the classroom available online. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Deepen your mindfulness practice. Learn to focus attention with choiceless awareness and be present through sitting meditation 2. Develop a knowledge of basic neuroscience in relation to the benefits of mindfulness practice 3. Explore the neuroscience of gratitude and develop a daily gratitude practice 4. Learn to observe your own thoughts, emotions and physical sensations understand how they change when you react in various situations. Develop the ability to create a space in which you respond calmly rather than react 5. Explore a range of mindfulness techniques and approaches for working with children at all primary school levels 6. Develop an evaluation framework and learn how to critically evaluate online mindfulness resources for schools | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Sitting meditation with choiceless awareness Basic neuroscientific evidence regarding the benefits of mindfulness practice The practice of gratitude and associated benefits Managing stressful situations by responding instead of reacting Exploring a range of mindfulness practices and activities for primary school classrooms Evaluating online mindfulness resources for children in primary classrooms | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles:
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Other Resources
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