International Webinar on mindfulness in Classroom

On 11 October, 2022, Department of Education, School of Humanities, Social Science and Education organised a international webinar on 'Mindfulness in Classroom'. Prof. Nellie Deutsch (Ed.D), Co-Chair Elect of CALL-IS at TESOL International Association, and a Canadian education technology expert was the speaker of this event. The talk began with Dr. Parvesh Lata, Head of the Department, delivering a warm welcome to the guest speaker, introducing her to the audience. In the present moment of turmoil and disturbances, it is important for the student teachers to learn to keep themselves calm and focus their attention.

Dr. Deutsch began her speech by giving a definition of mindfulness. She noted that in the busy lifestyles our minds are always buzzing with stream of thoughts. The need of the hour is to calm this wondering mind and have a clean slate every single day. It is dangerous to have a wondering mind, which could lead to build fear among human being of the future. Dr Nellie reiterates that worrying about future is pointless and noone would be able to control it. What can be done, instead, is to pay attention to the present. This is the reason to practice and learn mindfulness. Through practicing mindfulness one will be able to control feeling and emotion.

Next she gave a brief historical understanding of the idea. She further gave certain tips to facilitate the mindfulness and demonstrated it through two short practices with the audience. The session ended with several questions from the audience on the ways to sustain attentiveness and Heartfelt thanks note by Head, DoEd(SOHSE) Dr. Parvesh Lata.