Digital Zen: The Effects of an Online Mindfulness Course on Graduate Student Stress, Resilience, and Grit

Abstract

Graduate students often face heightened stress levels due to the complex demands of work, personal commitments, and academic rigor. In response, an asynchronous Mindfulness Meditation elective course was designed to nurture holistic self-care, promoting mindfulness and resilience among participants. Through engaging instructional methods, the course aimed to enhance students’ stress management skills and overall well-being. A mixed methods study was conducted, with participants completing pre- and post-course surveys measuring mindfulness, perceived stress, grit, and resilience. Qualitative inquiries at the course’s conclusion captured the student experience, exploring the potential of mindfulness interventions to equip graduate students with essential stress-coping skills, supporting them throughout their academic and professional journey. This paper advocates for the integration of an online asynchronous Mindfulness Meditation course into graduate curricula, providing students with invaluable stress management techniques essential for navigating both academic and professional challenges. The study presents a thorough analysis that blends qualitative and quantitative data underscoring the significance of empowering students with effective coping strategies to elevate their resilience and well-being within the online education landscape.

Presenters

Jennifer Myers
Assistant Clinical Professor and MSN in Nursing Education Track Director, Graduate Division of the College of Nursing and Health Professions, Drexel University , Pennsylvania, United States

Rita Carroll
Assistant Clinical Professor, Track Director Complementary and Integrative Health Program, Complementary and Integrative Health Program, Advanced Role Graduate Nursing Division, Drexel University, Pennsylvania, United States

Jackie Murphy
Associate Clinical Professor, Division of Graduate Nursing, Drexel University, Pennsylvania, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Health Promotion and Education

KEYWORDS

Mindfulness, Online Learning, Graduate Students

Digital Media

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