The Importance of Movement in the Classroom

This morning I shared a short-form video (TikTok? Reel? Who knows...it was on YouTube) to my Facebook page and it got me thinking about movement in the classroom. The video, from @drdinin, is a humorous short poking fun at students, hinting that those students who sit in the first row are taking notes, while all of those in the back aren't paying any attention to the class.

The video resonated with me as I teach in a computer lab that has a seating capacity for about 30 students. As an instructor of first year writing classes, my class size is typically capped at about 20 students, depending on the level of the course.

A number of studies have shown that students who sit toward the front of the class are more likely to be more engaged, and ultimately, more successful in their courses. This tends to be more likely in large lecture hall classes with over 50 students than those courses that have a much lower enrollment cap. Regardless, I think it's important for those of us even in smaller classrooms to consider the role of movement in the classroom in engaging students.

A professor, smiling and enthusiastic, captivates students while standing close to them.

During the first week of classes, while going over the course syllabus, I noticed a student on their phone. While this student could have been downloading the recommended Canvas Student app on their phone, I suspected the student was more than likely scrolling through social media. This happens from time to time and I try not to make a big deal about it. As it was, I was able to make my point about phone use during class (I happened to be going over a related technology use policy) without singling the student out.

But I'm rambling...let me get to my point!

It's important for instructors, when their classroom allows for it, to not be tied to the podium and/or the front of the classroom. Yes, oftentimes it cannot be helped, like when you are in a computer lab and aren't able to rearranged tables/chairs/desks. Most classrooms are designed to have the focus on the podium, lectern, or board/screen that is at the front of the classroom. In those cases, it's vital to keep students engaged by moving throughout the classroom.

This can be done in a number of ways:

• Moving from the podium (in my case, it's a tech desk) to write some things down on the board

• Using a remote control to sequence through presentation slides while walking around the room

• Walking toward a student who is answering a question or participating in some way

• Rotating through groups when students are working together

• Using the space up front to stay in motion instead of remaining in one position

• Moving closer to a student who appears distracted/not engaged

Dan Levy, Senior Lecturer in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, argues that not being "tethered to the front of the room...creates energy in the room." That energy is something that students subconsciously pick up on. When the energy is higher, students tend to engage more positively than if it is a static lecture. I like to think of the classroom as being a sort of stage. It's up to me to use the space wisely to interact with my "audience." When I was in graduate school, I remember a professor saying that teaching is in part a performance. We adopt a persona when we are in front of a group of students. I have recognized this in myself. My teaching persona is much more energetic, much more extraverted than my normal personality. I often will tell my students that I am, in fact, an introvert and they often give me the suspicious "Yeah, right" look. Thus, the energy we expend through movement and a genuine enthusiasm for learning, is important for student engagement.

Just as important, though, is that students have the ability to move around at appropriate times during the class. According to an article on the University of Michigan website, "Research shows that [students'] movement improves concentration, relieves stress, and increases retention." I always try to incorporate small group activities to break up my classes, so the focus isn't solely on me as a lecturer--the "sage on the stage" so the speak--but instead allows students to interact with on another and to apply new concepts that are introduced in class.

The effect this has on students is amazing. I think students are so used to having to sit in one place for an extended amount of time, that they often have to be told that the activity might require them to move their bodies to a different part of the classroom. It's wonderful to see how most students visibly relax once they realize they have the "permission" to get up and move elsewhere. Even students who are reluctant to join in on group work tend to relax a bit.

Students in college working together in class.

Give it a shot if you often find yourself "tethered" to the front of the room! When you notice a student's attention drifting, try moving closer and subtly engaging or redirecting their focus. Sneak a peek over their shoulder to check if they're scrolling through TikTok or IG, or, heaven forbid...shopping online! You'll be thrilled to discover how simply moving around and getting closer can reel them back in!