“Deep Listening” in Buddhist Studies: Teaching and Learning during a Pandemic

• Main Authors: Frances Garrett, Sophie Chase
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-05-01
• Series: Religions
• Subjects: Buddhist Studies; meditation; trauma-informed pedagogy; student well-being; experiential learning; online teaching
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-1444/12/6/387

Co-authored between a professor and student, this essay discusses how an experiential learning assignment of “deep listening” was integrated into an online course on histories of Buddhist meditation. Paired with a group art project, the work provided not only an opportunity to practice critical communication skills, but also a sense of connection and community, which is especially important during the conditions of pandemic isolation. The course design relied on pedagogical principles specifically aimed at supporting student well-being, such as trauma-informed teaching. We reflect on how grounding course design in inclusive, anti-oppressive and care-focused principles may enable new outcomes in teaching and learning beyond this pandemic year.