by Joyce C. Cooper (Author), Jocelyn a. Cooper (Artist)
Enlightened Teaching: Elevating Through Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is an educational philosophy that incorporates mindfulness in the school setting. Enlightened Teaching follows the ideas of Dr. Shefali Tsabary presented in her book The Conscious Parent in an effort to awaken the consciousness of individuals who work with students. Instrumental in developing mindful is the recognition that many students are suffering from emotional wounds. As laid out by Dr. Joseph Hendershott in his book Reaching the Wounded Student emotional wounds prohibit students from reaching their true potential. Enlightened Teaching has established Noble Truths in Teaching and a path that leads to enlightenment in teaching. This path includes mindfulness, understanding, compassion, discipline, and guidance. The philosophy integrates the theories of Dr. Abraham Maslow, Dr. Erik Erikson, Dr. Benjamin Bloom, Dr. Jean Piaget, and Dr. Howard Gardner commonly taught in teacher preparation programs and applies them in a practical, cohesive way. Theories are applied to help teachers become mindful of themselves and their students to help students reach self-actualization and teachers transcendence by recognizing the spiritual side of all.