This week, we finished the 2nd presentation for the rest of the groups in the class. One group unfortunately could not present in class, but was able to record and organize their presentation in a way that we could go through it on our own time, which is what we were tasked to do.
The Group’s overall assignment is titled A Toolkit for Promoting Wellness in Digitally Enhanced Classrooms.
In this presentation, they discuss 4 main frameworks that they recommend best aid in addressing the issue they focus on. These frameworks are: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Trauma-Informed Pedagogy, Culturally Responsive and Relevant Pedagogy (CRRP), and Flipped Classroom with Wellness Breaks (Broyt & D’Ugo, 2025).
This presentation included a lot of helpful information that reminds educators that we need to look at each student as a whole and not only on the subject that we are teaching. We never know what a student may be dealing with when they are inside and outside of our classroom, so it is important that we find ways to ensure that we are making the classroom environment a safe and welcoming one.
The group’s incorporation of Headspace into their presentation was really insightful. I personally tried to use Headspace myself on my own a few years ago when I was struggling with some stuff, but it did not work for me like I thought it would. However, I know it works for others, and in this case, it was a great way to use it. The use of it for a “minds-on” activity is great because it allows students to switch their focus from whatever was going on before class to focusing on the class and being present so that they can fully engage and participate in that class. The video they used was so interesting, and I wanted to attach it below for anyone who is interested in the tool. The video provides an example of a meditation that the program offers.
The point they make at the end of their presentation about how “well-being is not something we tack on, it’s something that we build in” (Broyt & D’Ugo, 2025) is something that everyone, not just educators, needs to remember. The world we live in today has changed so drastically and will continue to change, and if we cannot find ways to promote and focus on the well-being of ourselves and others, then we are going to struggle. It is a practice that we need to build into our lives, whether it be simple meditation exercises like using Headspace, going for walks, or taking tech breaks. We just need to find something that fits for ourselves because there is never a “one-size-fits-all” approach to mental health and well-being.
This presentation reminded me that I need to start focusing on my own mental health and well-being so that I am able to support my students. With the school I am working with and the job I am doing, I am in a position where I am working with students who live on the campus and are my responsibility, as their parents have entrusted their child to those of us doing this job. If I cannot develop helpful routines or practices that will help me work through my mental health issues and promote my well-being, then how can I help the students I work with deal with their own issues? This has now pushed me to start looking and developing my own techniques and to find options that I can share with my students.
I cannot wait to see how this group’s project finishes, as I know they will have some great resources and ideas that will be available to access.
References:
Broyt, F. & D’Ugo, G. Mental Health and Wellness Through Digital Pedagogy. https://mentalhealththroughdigitalpedagogy.my.canva.site/
Headspace Health. (n.d.). Headspace. https://www.headspace.com/
