ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the impact of a philosophy of mind class on student mindfulness experience. Students enrolled in class were able to choose from two final project options, including a mindfulness activity. The project outline required students to commit to a particular daily mindfulness activity, complete the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) at the beginning and end of the class, and record any observations of bias or oppressive activity toward self or other occurring within the mindfulness activity. In addition, students were required to utilize relevant course material in their analysis of the FFMQ, recorded observations, and overall mindfulness experience. This project was transformative, contributing to an enriched understanding of course content. Anti-oppressive pedagogy is active in providing students with an opportunity to disrupt habits linked to bias and oppression through the cultivation of awareness. The analysis of their final formal reflections reveals three consistent themes linked to the general experience of bias and oppression, demonstrates the efficacy of course concepts in enhancing aspects of the mindfulness experience, and shows the overall importance of understanding one’s philosophical orientation when considering one’s experience within formal mindfulness practice.
