The Brain Gym® movements are physical. Technology is not.
All levels of educational systems are exploring how to bridge the gap between technology and physical experience. There are preschool curriculums based on the use of iPads; Montessori apps even exist that supposedly invite movement on a screen. There are all sorts of programs available for elementary through high school to allow for distance learning, independent study, and more! Virtual dissections and all sorts of other “labs” can be viewed online. At the university level, many are studying the efficacy of online learning, while we are teaching online. Longitudinal research is being published, gaps are being exposed, and the successes are being celebrated.
There are many pros and cons to online education. Research is finding it can be more time-consuming for the instructor. Grade point averages (GPA’s) may be lower than in-person classes. Not all thrive in the potentially sterile environment of engaging with a screen. And, online reaches a wider audience. Google online, e-learning, and/or distance learning to become more informed about online education–its efficacy and best practices.
Brain Gym® Online
How does this relate to Educational Kinesiology and Brain Gym® courses? Gail Dennison, co-founder of Brain Gym®, says it herself, “I still believe that person to person (or in a group) is the best way for people to experience Brain Gym and Edu-K.” (November 20, 2017 correspondence) I agree. However, I recognize that in today’s technological fast-paced society, many are not interested in traveling to attend 3-4 day cluster classes. The Edu-K curriculum is primarily in-person coursework, mostly 24 contact hours, which I hypothesize is inhibiting the program’s growth and expansion. This leaves me to wonder: Do we let the work fade away like electric typewriters and telephone landlines or do we explore new avenues of possibility?
I believe that we can successfully introduce Brain Gym® strategies and techniques in an online format. Here is a short list outlining my rationale:
- Pre-recordings allow for editing and refining.
- Live streaming creates a sense of community and allows for feedback regarding posture, muscle tension, and more.
- Slides and animated graphics anchor the concepts.
- Learning can be synchronous like in-person classes and/or it can be asynchronous, which means each person learns at a personalized time and space.
- Co-learning can achieved through private Facebook groups, yahoo groups, google hangouts, group emails. During live classes, many platforms have a sidebar for chats. Email and telephone can engage the visual and auditory systems.
Go Deeper
In my experience playing with this format, feedback consistently says that the learning went deeper when spread out over time.
In the pause, one can reflect deeper. Instead of reflecting all alone on the way home after a long weekend of learning, participants can communicate, collaborate and/or clarify concepts throughout the extended timeframe of the course. Support is ongoing.
The online class offered daily integration and implementation of the activities…time to read and reread the information presented – taking it in to a deeper level of understanding,
Student of online Edu-K course, 2017
Materials are utilized differently. In-person classes typically follow a pattern. There isn’t time allotted to read the teaching materials (manuals). Online learning utilizes different patterns–pre-read in order to be prepared for the experience or perhaps a reading assignment follows the face-to-face time online, which anchors in the experience with language. Practice time can be built into the online experience as well as assigned for off-line.
Beta Test Invitation
I’m prepared to explore this further in 2018. If you want to join me in this Beta-testing adventure, comment below or contact me for details. First online option will start early January. In the meantime, consider the pre-recorded four hour Faculty At Work, which is open to all who have taken Brain Gym® 101.
Online learning allows you to receive an amazing course experience in the comfort of your own space. You will provide an honest self-assessment of the learning gained as well as an evaluation of the platform and me, as instructor. The collated online reports will be used at the curriculum, faculty, and administrative levels to consider policy for our organization.
Bridging Technology with Physicality
An effective bridge can be built! I have participated in numerous online courses as part of my Master Trainer continuing education requirements. I teach at two universities hybrid courses, which are split online and in person. I know how to use a number of platforms. While running a beta program, adjustments can be made to assure a blend between information and experience, language and movement. Are you the ready to help build the bridge?
Contact [email protected] today to discuss how you can learn the Brain Gym® strategies in 2018!
(c) 2017 Cindy goldade, in-motion intelligence
