Date of Award

Spring 4-30-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Education (MSEd)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Dr. Sean O'Shea

Abstract

This thesis explores the topic of implementing mindfulness programs with teachers in school settings. It begins by exploring the history of how mindfulness has been implemented with students as well as with teachers, revealing the problematic nature of the “mindfulness fad” that has entered into public schools across the country in the past ten years. It also analyzes more recent programs that have begun implementing mindfulness in schools in more productive and responsible ways. The paper then gives a narrative account of a non-traditional mindfulness group that offers an alternative method for training teachers in mindfulness. The group facilitator conducted the group using a Motivational Interviewing (MI) framework as well as a therapeutic groups framework, and tracked participant growth by using the Trans Theoretic Model (TTM), colloquially known as the “stages of change.” At the conclusion of the group, the majority of group members made notable progress towards integrating mindfulness into the fabric of their lives, showing that the method used was efficacious.

Comments

Childhood General and Special Education

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