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Mindfulness and Learning
Podcast

Mindfulness and Learning

Leading Learning



Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Eye Opening
  • Hot Topic
  • Inspiring

Recommendation

Ever bump into someone at a department store and say “sorry,” only to realize you’re apologizing to a mannequin? Harvard psychologist Ellen Langer has. It was the early 1970s, and the concept of mindfulness was barely a glint on the horizon of Western consciousness, but Langer’s experiences made her wonder: Are most people walking around in a perpetual state of zombie-like inattention, and if so, is there another way to be? That’s how she embarked on a life-long study of mindfulness, bringing the research sensibilities of Western psychology to bear on the ancient art of “being here now.”

Take-Aways

  • Mindfulness can be defined simply as “actively noticing new things,” and it doesn’t require a meditation practice.
  • Mindfulness begets better learning outcomes and more creative products.
  • To increase mindfulness, stay open to new information and get comfortable with not knowing.

About the Podcast

Ellen Langer is author and co-author of over 200 research papers on the subject of mindfulness. She’s a social psychologist, Harvard professor, Guggenheim fellow and author of 11 books, including Mindfulness; The Power of Mindful Learning; On Becoming an Artist; and Counterclockwise. The Leading Learning podcast offers insights and perspectives for learning professionals. Co-hosts Celisa Steele and Jeff Cobb co-founded Tagoras, a consultancy that serves the professional development, continuing education and lifelong learning markets.