This training focuses on two important 21st Century teaching concepts: mindful learning and critical thinking. What do these concepts mean and how might they be connected?
With Mindful Learning, children and adults engage focal attention while remaining open and receptive to what they notice. This promotes the brain’s ability to stay balanced physically, emotionally, and cognitively as learning unfolds. In this training, mindful learning is defined, demonstrated, and experienced to help participants update their understanding of how children learn. Participants are invited to “update their software” i.e., their beliefs, about how children learn.
The concept of critical thinking is explored from a brain perspective, helping participants to understand how mindful learning actually enhances this skill. Together, the two concepts help children and adults link what “is” to what “might be.”
This training includes theory, practical strategies, and experiential exercise to help convey the benefits of teaching with the brain in mind for both the adult and the child. Participants will learn how everyday teaching practices support both Mindful Learning and Critical Thinking when delivered by a mindful adult.