Lauren Wilgus
caciel lab - mindfulness researchMindfulness is paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally.
(Kabat-Zinn, 1994, p.4)
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mission statement“Culture and Contemplation in Education Lab (CaCiEL) is devoted to the study of the putative effects of mindfulness and compassion training for teachers, parents and students with regard to health and wellbeing, learning, and ethical development. We are investigating if such trainings represent viable and effective means of cultivating the self-regulatory skills and motivational dispositions we all need to thrive and flourish in the 21st Century in terms of a healthy body, a calm and clear mind, and a kind and good heart. ”
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Reflection
The lab is dedicated to researching the benefits of contemplative practices in the educational setting. Contemplative science is the study of potential effects of mental training (ie. Mindfulness practice). We are currently working with elementary school children and their teachers in two different schools. Mindfulness practices have been utilized for thousands of years, however the study of the practice scientifically is extremely new. It is important that we gather good scientific data on mindfulness in order to implement it into settings where it could provide a beneficial effect. The study of mindfulness has become popular recently, however we are still lacking in the amount of studies which have large sample sizes, are long term, and connect brain imaging data with qualitative data. The CaCiEL lab is meeting the need for further research on mindfulness practices. Our study has a sample size much larger than many other studies, as we are utilizing two school districts. Our study currently consists of about 270 children and 20 teachers. Our study combines quantitative data through the use of assessment tools with qualitative data through personal interviews. I believe mindfulness type practices help ease stress, improve the quality of life, and foster an empathetic character. With more research backing up these findings we can encourage others to practice mindfulness or other contemplative practices in their life.