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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109
Volume 16, Issue 1, Aug 2015 pp 70-73
Research Article
Effect of modulation of environment of learning by ‘Mantra-Meditation’ in MBBS students
Santosh C Gursale1, Mohankrishna Ghanta2
1Professor and HOD, 2Tutor, Department of Pharmacology, I. M. S. R. Mayani, Satara, Maharashtra, INDIA.
Abstract
Introduction: Learning is a multidimensional and dynamic process requiring a stress free and relaxed environment. There is some evidence in literature that meditation could positively influence memory and help medical students in reducing stress. Chanting of mantra is basically mind oriented with minimum body activity involvement, passive method of meditation Aims: At the end of ‘Mantra-Meditation’ technique, for three lectures, to assess the effect of ‘Mantra Meditation’, just prior to a learning session, on the students’ concentration towards lecture, academic performance, relaxation of mind and pulse rate. Material and Methods: Institutional Ethical Committee approval was taken. 69 students were included in the study, after taking their written informed consent. Test group- 34 Students were asked to chant mantra (Mantra-Meditation) for 8 min. at the start of the lecture, then lecture was delivered. Control group- Without Mantra-Meditation, same lecture was delivered to 35 students. Evaluation was done after three lectures by i) Students’ feedback questionnaire- ii) Multiple choice question test- was carried out before and after third lecture in both groups . iii) Discussion with students iv) ‘Pulse rate per minute’ of each student was recorded, before and after entire session. Statistical analysis used: Analysis of the difference in the performance in MCQ tests between two groups was done using independent samples t test. The change in pulse rate was analysed using paired t test. Results: In MCQ tests, difference in students' post MCQ test scores between control and test group was not statistically significant. But pre MCQ test score of meditation group was significantly better than control group. Significant number of students of mantra meditation group reported to be more attentive, relaxed, increase in concentration towards lecture, reduction in thoughts and in wandering of mind. There was significant reduction in mean pulse rate in mantra meditation group. Conclusions: This simple and easy mantra meditation could be adopted to enhance student learning.
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