Integrated Learning in a Science of Kriyayoga Course

Abstract

This study investigated changes in student self-awareness in a newly developed science course, The Science of Kriyayoga, which is a part of the Indic Studies minor at a medium size public university. Students enrolled in this course learned and practiced Kriyayoga techniques twice a week, over 15 weeks. Kriyayoga, a form of contemplative practice, emphasizes an anchoring and habitation in the present moment. Kriayoga is based on techniques designed to accelerate spiritual development and to create a profound state of tranquility in the participants. Pedagogy for this course utilized mind and body techniques for deepened learning. Data was collected in the form of surveys and interviews with students over two iterations of the course taught by the same instructor. One main question used for this study was, “To what extent and in what ways do you understand yourself in a scientific way through this course?” Two other questions were “Who are you?” and “What/who is your ideal?” Both quantitative and qualitative data was distilled and themes emerged which represent the key points of the findings.

Keywords

• Integrated Learning
• Kriyayoga