The Benefits of Kinesthetic Learning: How Movement Helps You Retain Information

Do you find yourself struggling to concentrate on a lecture or study material for extended periods? Are you someone who benefits from a more hands-on approach? If so, you may be a kinesthetic learner. Kinesthetic learning, also referred to as tactile learning, is a learning style that involves physical activities to help process and retain information. In this article, we explore the benefits of kinesthetic learning and how it can help you retain information more effectively.

What is kinesthetic learning?

Kinesthetic learning involves using physical activities to aid learning. For example, this could be through movement, touch, or hands-on experiences. People who learn kinesthetically tend to be more tuned in when they are involved physically, and they learn better through activities that require them to move and use their body. These people enjoy learning by doing, and they often enjoy activities like sports, dance, or other physical pursuits.

What are the benefits of kinesthetic learning?

1. Retention rates are higher – Studies have shown that those who learn kinesthetically have better retention rates than their non-kinesthetic counterparts. This means that learners who use physical activities as a part of their learning process tend to remember more and have a better understanding of the material than those who don’t incorporate movement into their learning.

2. Improved concentration – Kinesthetic learners tend to concentrate better when they are moving. This type of learning allows them to utilize excess energy and channel it towards learning. This also enables them to focus longer and avoid distractions.

3. Enhances memory – Incorporating physical activities into the learning process enhances the memory recall. Retaining information through physical activity can also trigger muscle memory, so recalling facts and figures feels more natural.

How can kinesthetic learning be incorporated?

There are many ways to incorporate kinesthetic learning into your studies, here are a few examples:

1. Take breaks for movement – Going for a walk or doing a few stretches can help channel excess energy and improve concentration.

2. Use study aids like flashcards – Make use of physical aids like flashcards to help reinforce information. This enables you to move around and handle the cards while learning.

3. Use tangible objects – Incorporate physical objects related to the topic of study. For instance, when studying geography, use models or globes to reinforce learning.

Real-life examples of kinesthetic learning

1. Airline pilot simulations – Pilots learn through simulators, a hands-on approach that allows them to experience the procedures and maneuvers that they will encounter in-flight.

2. Medical students – Medical students learn anatomy through dissection and other hands-on experiences.

3. Martial arts – Martial arts are based on physical movement and incorporate a hands-on approach, making them a great way to learn and retain information.

Conclusion

Kinesthetic learning can be an effective method of improving retention rates, concentration and enhancing memory recall. Incorporating physical activities into the learning process can improve learning outcomes, and there are many different ways to incorporate this learning style into your study routine. So, put on your running shoes, take a walk, or try incorporating physical aids like flashcards, models, or simulators into your studies to improve your learning outcomes.