The Hawn Foundation

Research

Evaluating the MindUP^TM Program

In 2005, leading researcher Kimberly Schonert-Reichl, Associate Professor of Education at University of British Columbia, received a grant from the The Hawn Foundation to conduct a pilot research study on MindUP^TM, developed by the The Hawn Foundation and author Nancy Fischer.

The University of British Columbia, in partnership with the Vancouver School Board, conducted multiple studies on MindUP^TM’s effect on student behavior and mental health compared to students who did not participate in MindUP^TM.

The studies used rigorous scientific design, including a randomized control trial, to test the program’s effectiveness. One study also explored the program’s implementation, helping to refine the curriculum design. Ongoing longitudinal studies will evaluate the impact of MindUP^TM over time.

Study Results

The studies found that children who participated in MindUP^TM, compared to children who did not, showed significant improvements on all four dimensions of teacher-rated school behaviors, including:

• Attentional control
• Decrease in aggression
• Decrease in behavioral dysregulation
• Increase in self-esteem
• Increase in pro-social behavior such as sharing
• Increase in social-emotional competence

Program effects were also found for self-reported optimism, self concept, reflection, and mindful awareness attention. The positive emotional benefits were strongest for girls and/or younger children.

To read the full study results, click here.

To learn more about the evidence behind the benefits of social and emotional learning, click here