|
Movement & Learning
Movement, particularly movement that includes
“crossing the midline,” which integrates different hemispheres of the brain, has been proven to assist with academic
learning, including:
-focus and concentration
-reading
-writing
-organization
-listening
-memory
Childhood
Obesity
Research finds that almost 1/3rd
of all school-aged children are overweight, with over 15% considered obese. Boys are more likely to be overweight (32.7%) compared to girls (27.8%). According to one 1995 study, 64% of American school children do not
have daily physical education. Childhood obesity leads to a high percentage of adult obesity, not to mention fatigue, the
onset of Type 2 diabetes, a variety of other health problems, and low self-esteem.
Movement in the Workplace
As adults, we’re flooded with recommendations to exercise. Entire magazines are devoted to it, as are regular
sections of magazines aimed at the home, family, or beauty. We’re familiar with management recommendations for an ergonomic
set-up at office workstations and the need for frequent breaks. Many corporations have set up “playrooms” and
gyms to allow employees to move and release. One billion dollar corporation based in San Diego, California has a hopscotch grid marked out on the carpet as you enter each conference
room. Why? Because we learn better, and are better prepared to learn, when we’re allowed to move. Yet a classroom is
often considered well-run when all students sit quietly and without moving, tapping, or fidgeting. For many young people this
is a virtually impossible task, and one that can biologically inhibit learning.
|
 |
|
Research
Writing about the
cuts in physical education, Thor Stibor, adapted Physical Education Specialist in the Santee, California school district,
says, “The irony is that recent brain research shows that daily quality physical education and increased physical
activity can impact student performance and actually enhance academic learning.
The claim that physical education by itself will increase academic test scores
(reading, writing, math) should be viewed with caution. However, there is current research that supports increased physical
activity impacting student performance and elevating test scores. A recent study shows that mental focus and concentration
levels in young children improve significantly after participating in structured physical activity. It suggests that physical
activities…have a definite impact on children’s frontal lobe areas for mental concentration, planning, and decision-making
(Caterino and Polak, 1999).
Dr. William Greenoug's, neuroscientist
at the University of Illionois, compared rats who exercised with those who didn’t. Those who exercised in a
diverse and enriched environment grew more connections between brain neurons.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
