Critical Studies in Education
February 24, 2022
Christopher T. Mccaw, J. Gerrard
4 citations
Teachers' use of contemplative practices like mindfulness and meditation involves complex forms of affective labor that blend personal self-work with professional responsibilities. Rather than merely serving as stress-reduction techniques, these practices are embraced by teachers to improve and transform themselves in relation to both teaching duties and broader life projects. Drawing on qualitative case studies, the analysis reveals deep political ambivalences: contemplative practices can become incorporated into obligations toward self-improvement and increased productivity, aligning with what has been called the 'belaboured self.' However, they may also foster relational forms of ethical responsibility that resist instrumentalizing, competitive, and individualistic education policy discourses and institutional cultures.
Pedagogy Culture and Society
December 8, 2025
Christopher T. Mccaw, Haisu Sun, Julieta Galante et al.
A model for applying contemplative pedagogy in higher education emphasizes rich contextualization and interdisciplinarity. The framework places embodied contemplative practices within concentric layers of context, drawing from multiple disciplinary perspectives. It addresses challenges educators face in contemporary universities, using cosmopolitanism to navigate epistemological, cultural, and practical diversity. The course 'The Art and Science of Meditation' illustrates this approach.
February 11, 2025
Christopher T. Mccaw, Julieta Galante, Cullan Joyce et al.
A conceptual framework is presented for applying contemplative pedagogy in higher education, emphasizing rich contextualization and interdisciplinarity. The model places embodied contemplative activities within concentric layers of socio-cultural, political, religious, ethical, and material context. Cosmopolitanism is introduced to address epistemological, cultural, and practical diversity encountered by educators and students. The framework is illustrated through a case study of an undergraduate subject, The Art and Science of Meditation, designed by the authors.