Course Evaluations
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
There have been 7 MBSR classes through Veterinary Social Work (VSW) since 2005. Pre and post assessments of the VSW MBSR support the class's effectiveness in reducing stress and enhancing quality of life for participants. These findings match what current research in peer-reviewed journals also suggest about course effectiveness.
For instance, for the VSW MBSR class there was a significant decrease in problems with self-esteem for participants. A score above 30 on the Index of Self Esteem indicates a clinically significant problem with self-esteem.
There was also a significant decrease in levels of personal stress for participants in class. Higher scores on the Index of Clinical Stress reflect higher levels of stress.
There was also a significant decrease in levels of depression for participants in class. Higher scores on the Generalized Contentment Scale reflect higher levels of depression.
The following are some qualitative comments class participants made about the class.
"This class helped me to look at situation in real life differently. I am able to step back, evaluate the situation, and respond, let go of something. I take things as they are more readily now."
"This class has enabled me to reduce stress at my job and to that I am incredibly thankful!"
"The class helped me realize that it's ok to take time for yourself. The class helped me to begin to reconnect with myself. I liked being forced to deal with what is, rather than running off to a "happy place". Thank you for giving me such an easy activity to do that helps me deal with life's little ups and downs!"
"Dr. Strand's [MBSR] program has provided new tools that I can use in any situation to find the best balance between my needs and the needs of those who I interact with. I have more confidence in my ability to handle difficult situations with less stress to myself, more support to others, and to feel better about the way I handled the situation after the fact."
"I would say I feel more positive, less depressed, more centered and my self torment has decreased markedly. I had an extreme emptiness and a need for inner peace when I began the class. I feel like there is some hope now and I have some tools to help me through these times to minimize or possibly even prevent them.. I am calmer, more present with my family, and the future and past do not worry me as much as they have.."
7 Challenges of Cooperative Communication
Course Evaluation Questions |
M |
N (SD) |
% Very True/ True |
Looking back, I am glad I agreed to take this course |
4.73 |
101 (.51) |
97 |
I have noticed a change in the way I communicate with others |
4.12 |
100 (.59) |
90 |
I found this class enjoyable |
4.71 |
101 (.52) |
97 |
I have noticed a change in the way I think about using communication skills at the end of this class |
4.58 |
101 (.52) |
99 |
I feel more competent in communicating with others |
3.97 |
100 (.67) |
83 |
I have learned at least two new communication skills throughout this course |
4.53 |
101 (.61) |
96 |
I have noticed I become less disturbed by other people's poor communication |
3.60 |
100 (.96) |
59 |
I have managed challenging interpersonal communication interactions with others in a way that makes me feel better about myself by using new communication skills |
4.05 |
100 (.76) |
78 |
I have noticed that I am more aware of my non-verbal behaviors while communicating with others |
4.13 |
47 (.58) * |
89 |
I have not used any new communication skills |
1.76 |
100 (.87) |
5 |
I have noticed I am better at decreasing interpersonal conflict by using these communication skills |
3.88 |
98 (.74) |
73 |
I have noticed that I am expressing more appreciation to people in my life |
4.02 |
101 (.74) |
78 |
I have felt embarrassed while practicing communication skills outside of class |
2.70 |
99(.97) |
25 |
I have noticed that I am better at decreasing high emotion in others by using these communication skills |
3.70 |
100 (.67) |
62 |
I am a better listener at the end of this course |
4.25 |
101 (.61) |
91 |
I am better able to confront problems with co-workers at the end of this course |
3.87 |
99 (.71) |
77 |
I am better able to confront problems with family members at the end of this course |
4.12 |
100 (.59) |
88 |
I am better able to read non-verbal behaviors of others than I was before the class |
3.78 |
46 (.59) * |
70 |
I would recommend this course to others |
4.85 |
101 (.36 ) |
100 |