Cultivating Critical Thinking and Mindfulness for Transformative Learning

Course overview

This immersive 5-day course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and practical strategies to foster critical thinking and mindfulness in their classrooms. Participants will delve into the art of facilitating thoughtful collaboration, exploring the concept of ‘reaction vs. response’ and discovering the power of the present moment.

The course will delve into the structure of discussions, empowering participants to create engaging classroom dialogues where students can put their knowledge into practice, develop their own views, and consolidate their learning. Participants will learn to facilitate meaningful conversations, intertwining the art of listening with the concept of mindfulness.

Emphasis will be placed on cultivating critical thinking skills, enabling participants to guide students through problem-solving exercises, distinguishing facts from opinions, and considering arguments and counterarguments. Participants will learn to create a challenging yet supportive atmosphere where concepts are questioned, and issues are raised constructively.

The course will introduce participants to the transformative power of mindfulness, presenting it as a powerful relaxation tool that can generate a more positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere. Participants will explore mindfulness practices in the classroom and in nature, learning to turn on all senses and foster a present state of mind conducive to deep learning and personal growth.

To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate a guided visit to a local museum, heritage site, or eco-conscious initiative. This visit will allow participants to explore the cultural richness of the area, draw inspiration from sustainable practices, and gain insights into incorporating inclusive and green dimensions into their mindfulness and critical thinking practices.

Tentative schedule:

Day 1: Introduction to critical thinking and mindfulness

Icebreakers and networking activities
Introduction to the course and participants
Overview of the course methodology and expectations
Exploring the concept of ‘reaction vs. response’ and the power of the present moment
Group discussions: Sharing personal experiences and challenges in fostering critical thinking and mindfulness in the classroom

Day 2: Facilitating thoughtful collaboration and discussions

The structure of discussions and facilitating thoughtful collaboration
The art of listening and having meaningful conversations
Creating engaging classroom dialogues for knowledge application and consolidation
Hands-on activities: Designing and facilitating classroom discussions

Day 3: Cultivating critical thinking skills

Problem-solving exercises and distinguishing facts from opinions
Considering arguments and counterarguments
Creating a challenging yet supportive atmosphere for questioning concepts and raising issues
Cultural visit (e.g. museum, heritage site) guided in English to explore local heritage and sustainability practices
Post-visit: Applying post-visit impressions to construct a critical approach to selected topics

Day 4: Mindfulness in the classroom and nature

Introducing mindfulness as a powerful relaxation tool for positive classroom atmospheres
Mindfulness practices in the classroom and in nature
Turning on all senses and fostering a present state of mind for deep learning
Hands-on activities: Experiencing mindfulness in different settings

Day 5: Integrating critical thinking and mindfulness

Teambuilding techniques for positive and collaborative classroom environments
Refining communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
Outdoor learning experiences and the benefits of nature-based education
Course evaluation and feedback
Certification ceremony

The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.

Learning outcomes:

The participants will be able to:

Analyze the concept of ‘reaction vs. response’ and the power of the present moment in fostering critical thinking and mindfulness in the classroom.
Facilitate thoughtful collaboration and meaningful discussions, creating engaging classroom dialogues for knowledge application and consolidation.
Implement problem-solving exercises and guide students in distinguishing facts from opinions, considering arguments and counterarguments.
Create a challenging yet supportive atmosphere where concepts are questioned, and issues are raised constructively, fostering critical thinking skills.
Integrate mindfulness practices in the classroom and in nature, generating a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Utilize mindfulness as a powerful relaxation tool, fostering a present state of mind conducive to deep learning and personal growth.
Develop teambuilding techniques for positive and collaborative classroom environments, preventing early school leaving and promoting school success.
Refine communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, enhancing vital interpersonal competencies for effective teaching and learning.
Evaluate the benefits of outdoor learning experiences and nature-based education, incorporating these practices into their teaching methodologies.
Collaborate with fellow educators to share best practices, strategies, and resources for integrating critical thinking and mindfulness in educational settings.

Course fee:

400 euro per participant (covered entirely by the Erasmus grant)

Course fee includes:

At least 25 hours of course content;
Course materials;
Certificate of participation;
Europass, on request;
Learning / Mobility Agreement;
Visits to local institutions, if available;
Personalized support;
Free high-speed WIFI internet at the POU Čakovec premises;
Refreshments;
Administration costs;
Dissemination materials.

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