APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Lawrence University students are getting a college credit, for doing nothing. The class, called “Doing Nothing,” was so successful in it’s first offering in the fall of 2022, the university is now planning to offer the class every term. Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Constance Kassor, leads the class.
“One of the key ideas behind this class is to encourage students to be fully present with their whole selves: mentally, physically, and emotionally. The course has three requirements: show up on time, be fully present and participate to the best of your ability in each class meeting, and leave your phone outside of the classroom.”
Some of the class time incorporates learning mindfulness techniques, such as deep listening, meditation and tai chi.
Kassor says there are many benefits of “doing nothing.” The skills the students learn can boost creativity, improve sleep, reduce stress, enhance productivity ad improve mental and physical health.
School officials say students have responded very well to the course, and that a lot of them are recommending it to their friends.
Students say that the course has helped them improve their sleep habits and has reminded them to put their phones down from time to time.
