Improving Teaching and Learning in a Regional University Campus Through a Focus on the Affective Domain

Authors

  • Janet Sawyer University of South Australia
  • Tahereh Zianian University of South Australia
  • Nina Evans University of South Australia
  • David Gillham University of South Australia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47381/aijre.v22i3.620

Keywords:

affective teaching, affective learning, mindfulness, meditation

Abstract

This paper describes the research process undertaken in a pilot study conducted at the University of South Australia’s Centre for Regional Engagement (CRE), and reports the feedback collected in relation to this process and the project overall. Academic staff and students from CRE’s two sites located in the rural and regional cities of Whyalla and Mount Gambier, South Australia, were recruited for the study. The purpose of the pilot study was to promote awareness of the value of affective teaching and learning amongst university academic staff and students and to implement the affective teaching and learning approach through mindfulness meditation interventions. The research aimed to investigate (a) the specific technique of mindfulness meditation as a strategy to develop awareness of the importance of the affective domain in teaching and learning and (b) whether/how engagement in mindfulness meditation by academic staff can contribute to an increase in affective teaching and learning. Academic staff participating in the pilot study found their involvement in the research improved their knowledge of the affective domain and contributed positively to both their approach to teaching and to their lives.

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Published

01-11-2012

How to Cite

Sawyer, J., Zianian, T., Evans, N., & Gillham, D. (2012). Improving Teaching and Learning in a Regional University Campus Through a Focus on the Affective Domain. Australian and International Journal of Rural Education, 22(3), 37–51. https://doi.org/10.47381/aijre.v22i3.620

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