Engaging Students Through Movement Integration: A Mixed-Method Study to Understand Interest and Concept Retention

• In Event: Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: Designing Effective Learning Environments I

Abstract

Movement integration is an interdisciplinary method of teaching, which may lead to greater student learning outcomes and long-term knowledge acquisition. This delayed experiment investigated the effectiveness of integrated movement lessons in the classroom to improve students’ interest and concept retention in reading and mathematics. Elementary students in 2nd and 3rd grade received instruction in a movement integration format and a traditional classroom format. Results revealed the interaction effect for content retention was non-significant, but a significant difference in interest inventory means existed for one of the classes. Observations and reflections from teachers revealed greater student engagement occurred during integrated movement lessons. Results highlight the relationship between integrated and traditional formats, suggesting that integrating movement may be used for supplemental instruction.

Authors

• Stacia C. Miller, Midwestern State University

• Suzanne Fischer Lindt, Midwestern State University