Observing The Elementary Classrooms

an elementary classroom

~maximum amount of seating

~bouncy balls

~stools

~big stuffed animals

~blankets

~class is spread out across the room

~two teachers constantly circling around the room

~made math even hands on and personalized

~regroup and discuss at the end of group work

~use of smart board and technology- set of computers in classroom-only class which had them

~students worked independently

~welcoming

Being hands-on is especially important in the classroom because it allows students to engage in kinesthetic learning. Studies have shown that kinesthetic learning, where a student carries out physical activities rather than listening to a lecture, is the most popular type of learning with students - 'doing' actions help students gain a better understanding of the material. It allows students to experiment with trial and error, learn from their mistakes, and understand the potential gaps between theory and practice. And most important, it provides educators with a unique opportunity to open the minds of their students in new and engaging ways as stated here on http://info.thinkfun.com/stem-education/the-importance-of-hands-on-learning.

Professor D.A. Kolb is the person most associated with experiential learning theory and said: “knowledge results from the combination of grasping experience and transforming it.”

Kolb’s research shows mastering expertise is a continuous process of experience, reflection, conceptualisation and experimentation.

Hands on involvement is where we try new things, and step out of our comfort zone.

This is what I believe is most important while learning today.