How Kinesthetic Learning Improves the Success of a Classroom

Carrie Irick

One of the biggest struggles elementary teachers face every year is how to get their young students not only to engage in the learning taking place, but also to retain the information taught. This has especially become a problem with two consecutive years of hybrid and/or virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students now more than ever don’t know how to engage in classroom learning and struggle with staying focused. The solution to this problem, as presented with the following scientific research, is to include more kinesthetic (or physical) learning into the daily teaching routine. This can be done through the use of a multitude of instructional strategies, educational manipulatives, and even sign language. Researchers have collected large amounts of data over the years, proving that physical movement and tactile experiences can be linked to improved learning in young students. Using this information, teachers can create a more active learning environment that will produce learners who are actively engaged and confident in the educational content they are learning through kinesthetic instruction.

• Carrie Irick is a senior early childhood education major and member of the Honors College at Lander University. She graduated in May 2022 and will begin her teaching career at Olanta Creative Arts & Science Magnet School. She will use the knowledge and experiences she’s gained throughout her college experience to create her own engaging, safe, and loving classroom.