The Love of Movement: How Movement Can Increase Learning
How Movement Can Increase Learning
When we think about education, we often focus on traditional models of sitting at desks, staring at a blackboard or computer screen for hours on end. However, research is increasingly showing that incorporating movement into the learning environment can actually enhance student engagement, memory, focus, and overall academic success. Enter the concept of Bodies in Motion, Brains in Motion – a philosophy that values the role of physical movement in cognitive development and educational outcomes.
In this blog, we’ll explore why movement is so crucial to learning and how creating spaces that encourage movement can transform the educational experience. Drawing from the insights in the white paper – Bodies in Motion, Brains in Motion, by Dieter Breithecker, we’ll discuss how we can embrace the love of movement in classrooms to help students thrive academically and personally.
The Science Behind Movement and Learning
Studies have long shown that physical activity can stimulate brain function, improve focus, and boost memory retention. But how exactly does movement impact learning?
1. Increased Blood Flow and Oxygen to the Brain
When we move, our bodies increase circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the brain. This enhanced blood flow has been linked to increased brain activity, which can help improve cognitive functions such as problem-solving, creativity, and memory retention. Movement has also been shown to help students retain information better and stay focused for longer periods of time.
2. Improved Focus and Engagement
Incorporating movement into learning activities can help students better engage with the material. When students are encouraged to move, stretch, or change their position, they are less likely to feel restless or distracted. This can be particularly beneficial for students with attention challenges, such as those with ADHD, who may find it difficult to focus while sitting still for long periods. Movement can serve as a natural way to re-energise students and boost attention levels.
3. Enhanced Mood and Motivation
Movement has a direct impact on our mood—exercising or changing positions can help release endorphins, our brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. These positive effects lead to higher motivation, making students more eager to participate and learn. When students feel good and are actively engaged, they are more likely to approach learning with enthusiasm and confidence.
4. Stress Reduction
Classrooms can sometimes be stressful environments, especially during exam periods or when students are struggling with difficult material. Movement, whether it’s a quick stretch, a walk around the room, or a movement break, can significantly reduce stress levels. This creates a more positive learning atmosphere and ensures students feel comfortable and relaxed, helping them absorb information more effectively.
Why Movement Matters in the Classroom
Bodies in Motion, Brains in Motion white paper highlights the importance of integrating movement into the classroom, not just for physical benefits, but for cognitive and emotional growth as well. Movement allows students to feel more connected to their learning environment, boosting collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
VS Classroom Furniture is a great example of how schools can embrace learning in motion. With flexible seating options, standing desks, wobble stools, and mobile furniture, teachers can create spaces that encourage movement throughout the school day. These designs not only support physical activity but also encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and communication among students, all of which are essential for a positive and dynamic learning experience.
Types of Movement to Incorporate in the Classroom
There are countless ways to bring movement into the classroom. Here are a few effective methods:
1. Flexible Seating
Allow students to choose their seating arrangements, from standing desks to balance balls or even floor cushions. Flexible seating lets students adjust their posture, giving them more control over their learning space.
2. Movement Breaks
Incorporate short breaks throughout the day where students can engage in physical activity. Whether it’s stretching, jumping jacks, or a few minutes of walking around the classroom, these breaks can refresh students and improve their focus when they return to their desks.
3. Collaborative Learning Stations
Instead of a traditional lecture-style setup, arrange your classroom into stations where students can move around and work in small groups. This promotes peer interaction and encourages movement while learning.
4. Kinesthetic Learning Activities
For subjects like math, science, or language arts, incorporate hands-on activities that require students to move. For example, students can participate in role-playing, build models, or use large whiteboards to work out problems.
The Benefits of “Learning in Motion”
By encouraging movement in the classroom, educators create a dynamic learning environment that supports a range of learning styles. The benefits of movement in education are clear:
- Improved academic performance: Movement enhances cognitive functioning, leading to better comprehension, retention, and test scores.
- Increased student engagement: Active learning encourages students to become more involved in their lessons and enhances their attention.
- Stronger social skills: Collaborative movement activities can foster communication, teamwork, and social development.
- Physical well-being: Regular movement helps students develop healthy habits and reduce sedentary behaviour, which can lead to long-term health benefits.
Love for Learning and Movement
Let’s embrace a deeper love for learning that encourages movement. The truth is, students learn better when they are allowed to move and engage with their surroundings. By designing classrooms that promote physical activity and flexible learning environments, we provide students with the tools they need to succeed—both academically and personally.
VS Classroom Furniture is at the forefront of this movement, providing versatile and innovative solutions to create classrooms that inspire students to move, learn, and grow. With a focus on flexibility and comfort, VS furniture enables educators to create spaces where students can thrive in both mind and body.
As we look toward the future of education, let’s continue to embrace the power of movement to foster a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Movement isn’t just for physical health—it’s essential for cognitive development, emotional well-being, and academic success. By incorporating movement into the classroom with tools like VS Classroom Furniture, educators can create an environment that supports the holistic development of every student.
Let’s make every day a celebration of learning in motion!
