Active learning is important for all students. For kinesthetic learners, it is critical. As an educator and a researcher, I've dedicated my career to educating people about the benefits of movement and learning. The research is clear: students who move while learning retain information better, are more focused, and are less hyperactive.
This year, I've applied to speak at SXSWedu. My presentation, Activate Curriculum to Improve Health and Learning, is being voted on now through the SXSWedu PanelPicker. My session will focus on strategies and solutions that help students succeed academically. An increasing number of educators incorporate resources to help improve student health. However, few elementary professionals, and still fewer early-grade educational products simultaneously address both health and academic achievement. This discussion will focus on research about the positive relationship between movement and learning and the associated outcomes demonstrating how active students learn better, are more focused, and are less hyperactive. In my session, I will review research and evidence-based strategies, highlight technologies, and share real-world success stories and integration practices.
During my presentation, participants will:
- Gain an understanding of current brain research and the links between physical activity and cognition.
- Learn how movement contextualizes content (for example, stretching for long vowels and squatting for short vowels).
- Gain an appreciation of multisensory learning styles in the classroom (with a special focus on kinesthetic learners).
Want to learn more about active learning at SXSWedu? Upvote my session!
