According to the National Afterschool Association “80 percent of what we know is acquired through listening, which is closely connected with reading comprehension. There is also a strong connection between increased physical activity and improved brain function.” The Walking Classroom is a unique approach to learning that combines physical activity with active learning via podcast. Students that come for poorer socioeconomic backgrounds have been found to have drastically lower levels of vocabulary, which often translates into lower reading levels. Listening to podcasts provides a bridge for these students whose reading comprehension is lower while also being exposed to physical activity and fresh air. The Walking Classroom can be purchased, or teachers and afterschool providers can apply for a donation of the materials so long as certain guidelines are met.
Regardless of whether or not The Walking Classroom is implemented within your program it’s an interesting and new approach to learning. The wide variety of podcasts available can be powerful learning tools for students, particularly those who often find themselves overwhelmed by reading material. Podcasts have the potential to expand a student’s vocabulary, expose them to interesting subject matter, and can be accessed on various devices while providing great mobility. To get your students moving, why not try and introduce them to the idea of learning while on the move. Seek out some informative and interesting podcasts students can then download onto their phones, organize a path for them to follow, and then start walking!
