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Contemplative Pedagogy

Overview

The Center for Academic Innovation provides comprehensive support for faculty interested in exploring and implementing contemplative pedagogy in their teaching practice. Through a thoughtfully designed combination of workshops, individual consultations, and ongoing learning communities, the Center helps interested educators effectively develop both the theoretical understanding and practical skills needed to integrate contemplative approaches.
Classroom-Workshop

Get Involved

Faculty members can engage with experienced instructional designers and colleagues who specialize in contemplative practices and their application in higher education. These specialists offer personalized guidance on designing contemplative activities that align with course objectives while honoring the unique characteristics of different disciplines. Whether an instructor seeks to incorporate brief mindfulness exercises, develop sustained reflection practices, or reimagine entire courses through a contemplative lens, the Center provides tailored support throughout the process.

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Through dedicated workshop series and podcasts, the Center can guide faculty in exploring specific contemplative practices such as mindful listening, contemplative reading, and reflective writing. These hands-on sessions allow educators to experience practices firsthand before adapting them for their classrooms. Additionally, the Center can offer retreat-style programs during academic breaks, providing faculty with extended opportunities to deepen their understanding and personal practice of contemplative approaches.

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Faculty Learning Communities

The Center offers the opportunity to develop regular Faculty Learning Communities focused on contemplative pedagogy, creating spaces where educators can share experiences, discuss challenges, and collaboratively develop innovative teaching approaches. These communities foster both professional growth and personal practice, recognizing that effective implementation of contemplative pedagogy often begins with faculty members' own contemplative journey.

Resources

Resources available through the Center include a curated library of readings and research on contemplative pedagogy, sample activities and assignments that have been successfully implemented across disciplines, and assessment tools for measuring the impact of contemplative practices on student learning and engagement. The Center also maintains connections with national networks and organizations focused on contemplative education, helping faculty stay current with emerging research and best practices in the field.

Ongoing Support

The Center's support extends beyond initial implementation, offering ongoing consultation to help faculty refine their approach, address challenges, and document the impact of contemplative practices on student learning. This sustained engagement helps ensure that contemplative pedagogy becomes an integral and sustainable part of teaching practice, benefiting both faculty and students across the university.

Learn More

For more information, contact Dr. Diane Gavin, Executive Director of the Center for Academic Innovation at 210-784-1216 or dgavin@tamusa.edu
Contact Information
Hours of Operation
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Office Location
Classroom Hall 306

Phone Number
(210) 784-1216