EMBODIED LEARNING AS PEDAGOGICAL APPROACH TO TEACHERS

Kimberly S. Malang

At present, approaches in teaching and learning process are not limited to where learners watch, listen, sit, read and write. Teachers are now dealing on 21st century learners with diverse needs, so they should always be flexible and open to changes. Almost every day in a planning stage, they are stuck on contemplating the best strategy that can perfectly suit their lesson. One type of approach that is often used is an Embodied Instruction. Embodied Instruction is not only confined on intellectual way of teaching, but engages the body, mind and spirit. It consists of experiential, hands on and physical activities.

Few examples of the aforementioned approach are role play, dance, gamification, hand gestures, or the like. Since the approach engages the learners physically, intellectually, and socially, learners are encouraged to collaborate. When this approach is implemented, there seems to be a high chance of the following advantages: it makes the learners step out of their comfort zone; the learners have the freedom to explore and become more flexible; it provides social interaction that can invite motivation among the learners; it recognizes students’ abilities discovering multiple intelligences; and, it lengthens retention.

In some cases, embodied learning either works or it does not. Utilizing a chosen instruction does not guarantee a ticket to an effective teaching-learning process. It is a challenge on a teacher to successfully implement such. The application of a specific approach generally relies on a particular subject matter to be taught and diversity of the learners. That is why, assessing the strengths and weaknesses of a particular instruction to be used is recommended. Yes, it is understood that there is no single best method. What is effective today may not be effective tomorrow. Teachers should always explore. In the end, what teachers consider satisfying is the effectiveness of the approach to learners’ advancement.

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The author is Teacher I at Pampanga High School