Music and movement are keys that can open the mind for learning. We may not always think of it this way, but making and keeping memories are foundations of the educational experience.
Computers store enormous quantities of simple, linear memories—but the brain works with vastly more complex networks with pieces all over the brain. Each memory has an emotional component, a situational context, the facts, sensory tags, and connections to all previous related experiences.
That’s why music and movement are powerful partners in the learning process. Think about how you learned the alphabet. Music evokes emotion, either positive or negative. Feelings trigger the release of powerful neurotransmitters. When it’s good, learning sticks. Keep it light. Any sense of threat will lead the brain to barricade similar experiences in the future. Music can signal transitions, set a calm environment, or energize students for movement and memory.
Movement engages the vestibular system, adding richness to the memory, increasing the likelihood of recalling it later. Through repetition and practice, skills and information (times tables, sight words, riding a bike, driving a car) translate into automatic skills that the cerebellum (or little brain) stores for quick retrieval when needed. Movement with music serves as glue to make learning stick.
To keep minds active, have students come up with their own rhythmic movements or raps to reinforce the concepts you are teaching. Fun helps kids learn Try having them move arms and legs across the midline while seated, move around the room, or—for an extra oxygen boost—get them moving outdoors. Move it to learn it!
Please add a comment letting us know how you use music and movement as tools to support your students’ learning.
November resource of the month:
Smart Moves: Why Learning is Not All In Your Head by Carla Hannaford (1995-Great Ocean Publishers)
Brain Gym Teachers Edition: Revised by Paul and Gail Dennison (1989-Ed Kinesthetics)
©copyright 2007, Sandra Stanton. For helpful articles, books, resources, Sandra's bio, calendar, news and contact info, go to www.ourbrainbuddies.com