Reading comprehension – mindfulness passage: what is the meaning of the term “pedagogical practice” as used in the context of healing communities?

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary-based question appears in the same passage about mindfulness, community, and healing. Near the end, the author states that the described communities show a way of reducing prejudice and fostering inclusion “based in psychology research and pedagogical practice”. The term “pedagogical” comes from the field of education and teaching, and the question asks you to identify its correct meaning in this context.

Given Data / Assumptions:

The passage:
- Describes small student groups as “healing communities”.
- Mentions that these communities reduce prejudice and foster inclusion.
- States that this approach is based on psychology research and pedagogical practice.
- Uses the word “pedagogical” in connection with research and practice in a learning environment.

Concept / Approach:
Words ending in “-gogical” often relate to teaching. The root “pedagogue” historically refers to a teacher or tutor. In educational contexts, “pedagogical practice” refers to methods, strategies, and activities that teachers use to foster learning. Because the passage is about a classroom-based exercise, it makes sense that the author would refer to teaching practices here.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note the academic tone of the phrase “psychology research and pedagogical practice”. Both terms sound technical and are tied to education and social sciences. Step 2: Recall that the passage describes class exercises and student groups, which clearly situate the discussion in an educational setting. Step 3: Recognise that “pedagogical” is related to pedagogy, the art or science of teaching. Step 4: Choose the option that reflects teaching methods and educational practice.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can confirm your understanding by substituting “teaching practice” for “pedagogical practice” in the sentence: “These communities show a way of reducing prejudice and fostering inclusion based in psychology research and teaching practice.” The sentence still makes perfect sense and fits the context of education.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option a) “Going on foot rather than using any transport” is unrelated to the context and confuses “pedagogical” with words about foot travel, which is incorrect etymologically here.
Option b) “Related to child behaviour” is too narrow and slightly misdirected. While pedagogy often involves children, the term itself specifically refers to teaching approaches, not just behaviour.
Option c) “Mindful games” is not an accurate synonym. Although games might be part of some pedagogical strategies, the word encompasses much more than games and does not mean games by itself.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to guess based on surface associations, such as confusing “ped” with words about feet, or assuming that any word used near “psychology” must relate to mental states. Instead, building a habit of recognising common roots like “pedagogue” helps in handling academic vocabulary more confidently.

Final Answer:
Methods and activities relating to teaching and education