Mindfulness:
Theory and Practice

Subject Overview

Mindfulness: Theory and Practice examines the systems of meditative practice taught in Buddhist traditions, focusing on mindfulness as the key component in the Buddhist doctrinal framework. It explores the theoretical foundations for meditative practice as well as the practical methods and techniques of meditation, and it also looks at the variety of applications of mindfulness in new non-Buddhist contexts and environments. The subject places emphasis on theory and on practice. In addition to the study and critical examination of primary and secondary sources on Buddhist meditation, the subject also demonstrates several techniques and aspects of mindfulness in practice. Students are expected to devote two hours per class day to the practice of mindfulness and record and reflect on their experiences. The classes are accompanied by practical sessions of meditation as appropriate to the development of each topic.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the foundational concepts, beliefs and worldviews underlying the principal Buddhist mindfulness meditation traditions, from early Indian Buddhism to the East Asian traditions and beyond. 
2. Critically evaluate the theoretical methods and claims of secular mindfulness movements, which entails understanding the epistemological and clinical arising from contemporary applications of mindfulness in new contexts.
3. Acquire and develop practical experience in the various techniques of mindfulness meditation and develop the ability to compare different practices. 
4. Be able to connect the practical techniques of mindfulness meditation with the theoretical role and function of mindfulness within the Buddhist doctrinal framework. 

Assessments

• Assessment 1: Reading log (10%, due week 2)
• Summary of reflective journal (15%, due week 4)
• Assessment 2: Short essay (35%, due week 6)
• Assessment 3: Essay (45%, due week 10)