Draft Meditation Module for Second-Level
Noel Keating has devised a draft module for introducing meditation to teenagers and young adults. It is hoped over the school year 2017-18 that a number of teachers at second level will test the module by using it as the basis for teaching meditation to diverse groups of young people in schools and other settings. This module can be adapted for any group from 12 to 25 (and upwards)!
The aims, desired outcomes, teaching and learning strategies and assessment methods are identified and the module details the elements that might comprise each lesson and gives access to a range of audio files and videos on different aspects of meditation. It is intended in time to develop the module into a course-book, developing each of the key elements in each lesson. The draft module may be downloaded by clicking on the image.
Aims
- To provide information about various forms of contemplative practice
- To explore the history of contemplative practice across a variety of wisdom traditions.
- To reflect on meditation and mindfulness in modern society
To discover the benefits and fruits of contemplative practice for individuals, communities and society- To provide students with an opportunity to experience the practice of meditation and enable them to explore its benefits and fruits in their lives.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
- Presentation and exploration of audio, audio-visual and written text
- Group and personal meditation practice
- Sharing and discussion about personal experience of meditation
Learning Outcomes
- Students will have practical experience of contemplative practice
- Students will have a knowledge of the role of meditation across the wisdom traditions
- Students will be able to speak about the personal benefits and fruits they have experienced through the practice
Assessment:
- Level of personal commitment to and engagement with the practice
- Level of participation in classroom discussion and group work
- Ongoing completion of a personal Meditation Journal
- Prepare a short presentation on any aspect of contemplative practice or on your experience of contemplation. This may be an essay (600-800 words), a poem, a song, a dance, a talk (with PowerPoint slides if you wish), a video, a piece of artwork or any other medium. You will make a brief 3-minute presentation to your class on your assignment.
