Make learning a moving experience
A lot of students now a days exhibit lack of interest in their lessons. They are not focused on the material being discussed. Some students are lethargic during class hours while others are indifferent. You can count with your finger the number of students who are enthusiastic and are eager to learn.
I am certain various factors are at play given the scenario. I would like however to discuss the one thing I often observe in school and that is: Many classrooms rely on academic time where students sit for long periods in order to learn. However, brain research findings are supporting movement in the learning process. In fact, one of the neuroscience findings is that exercise, physical activity and movement boost brain function.
An educator’s business is to make every student learn. Hence, he or she has to do something to stimulate the learner. There are many ways or techniques which educators may employ to arouse the interest of their learners. Using movements, physical activity and exercise can be one strategy teachers adopt to move students forward rather than leaving them behind.
Integrating more movements into the lessons and translate neuroscience into classroom practice is a great way of reinforcing learning. Healthy, active students make better learners. Reduce the amount of time that your students are required to sit and to give them more chances to move by incorporating more physical activity into the classroom setting. Instructional methods that integrate kinesthetic arts (dance/movement, drama/role play, and drawing or painting) can be great ways to engage students to participate and learn. Children are insatiably curious and are highly mobile. They would prefer to process new information kinesthetically using more of their senses to understand and interact with learning.
Experiences with movement disciplines (such as calisthenics or other creative movements) can be an appropriate technique to anchor learning for students in fun and creative way. The moment the students’ energy begin to drag, a lively energizer can help. Intersperse quick movement breaks into the day to bring oxygen up to students’ brains and refuel them for learning. Often times, squirming, calling out, staring out the window, whispering to a neighbor and other such minor misbehavior are clear signals that students need to get up and move to refocus.
If you join in the fun, you get the benefits of play, too. You may find you are able to think more clearly and execute lessons more effectively. Making time to have fun with the children you teach also takes pressure off and can help you remain optimistic at what’s often a stressful time of the year. Rex Juel S. Mero