The eighteenth Journal Club Session organized by BRAC Institute of Languages (BIL) was held on February 02, 2017, at the Writing Centre of BRAC University. Ms. Tanjila Ferdous and Ms. Tanzima Baten, Lecturers at BRAC Institute of Languages (BIL), individually presented an article titled “Guided Meditation in the English Language Classroom,” written by Amy Jenkins.
As the name suggests, the article is about integrating meditation into English Language classrooms. The author relates meditation with anxiety and how meditation helps students in learning. The presenters shared their views on the challenges students usually face in classrooms, one of which is experiencing anxiety and struggling to acquire the language being taught. Therefore, the speakers and participants came to the conclusion that by using guided meditation at the beginning of English classes, students may achieve a relaxed state and become more open to acquiring the language. They further emphasized on Krashen’s theory of ‘affective filter’, the importance of ‘breathing in and breathing out’, benefits of meditation, and how to effectively meditate in the classroom.
All the attendees participated in the discussion and contributed their thoughts and ideas on how meditation could be used in the classes. According to several faculty members, meditation may prove to be a useful part of teaching and learning, and they are looking forward to incorporate these in their own classes. Thus, the article was deemed both interesting and informative by the faculty members present in the session.