One of the main benefits of The Walking Classroom is increasing students’ physical activity (without sacrificing instructional time!). Beyond this benefit, educators using the program also cite other academic benefits. Educators have found that the Walking Classroom addresses different learning styles and helps with differentiated instruction.
Addresses Different Learning Styles
Not only is listening comprehension important, my students have grown in their communication skills. They are able to process information, share it with others and offer extension information. This is beneficial because now many of my shyer students are now thriving with their speaking and listening skills.
– Melissa Turner, North Carolina
The Walking Classroom has given my students the opportunity to get outside and learn in a different way. I have so many students who have difficulty sitting still in the classroom. We often stop for brain breaks and I allow some of them to stand for part of the day. I’ve noticed that on days we get out for The Walking Classroom, those students often don’t ask if they can stand for the rest of the day. The Walking Classroom has provided us with an alternative to sitting while learning.
– Gina Wheeler, California
The Walking Classroom is really helpful because everyone participates. Sometimes we struggle with students not wanting to do activities, but with The Walking Classroom, they are ALL excited!
– Faith Blaisdell, Wisconsin
My students and I have appreciated getting outdoors and learning in a different way!
– Samantha Burks, Illinois
Sometimes we see students in our outpatient clinic. Often they are feeling much better than when they were in the hospital, and our small classroom can feel confining. I have been able to utilize The Walking Classroom with students who have attention/focus issues so they can learn and move their body at the same time. I have had great success getting a student to focus on an entire podcast because we could walk the clinic steps and floors!
– Brianne Starin, North Carolina
The Walking Classroom has given my kids an alternate way to learn and gather information. It gives everyone a chance to get up and out of their seats, and to move around. I think that really helps some kids stay on track for the day.
– Teri Webb, Utah
Some of the students in my group have a difficult time accessing information via text. Providing them equitable access to information so that they could participate fully in discussions helped build their confidence as learners. This aspect of The Walking Classroom will create far reaching, positive outcomes for many students.
– Tanya Stillman, Colorado
Differentiates Instruction
Not only does the program offer students exercise and fresh air, but it also is especially effective at equalizing access to information. While some of my students live in environments where information is organically shared, not all my students receive this type of reinforced education. Thus, the activity naturally fosters fairness and equitable access of information.
– Betsy Vorster, North Carolina
My English and history students are from grades nine through twelve, but read on a first to third grade level . . . I use the podcasts as an introduction to the lesson I’m going to teach. My students get tired of listening to me and it’s hard to find texts that are on their reading level but not childish. I will use my Walking Classroom devices for years to come.
– Margaret Mullins, West Virginia
Although the program is meant for slightly older elementary students, my second graders have loved it so much! It has revolutionized our discussions, approach to learning and their overall love of learning. My kids beg to use them!!
– Hannah Dandoy, North Carolina
Since receiving the materials, we have implemented a routine of walking to a weekly podcast, which relates directly to a featured curriculum area of focus. Students’ understanding has vastly improved through thee incorporation of audio instruction. Student engagement remains high, as they are excited to extend their learning beyond the curriculum.
– Erin Galante, Nevada
I’m a firm believer in the fact that students don’t learn best by sitting at a desk in a classroom, so when I heard about The Walking Classroom, I knew it was something I had to try!
– Theresa Tietjen, New York
We are a middle school group of emergent bilingual students with students in a small rural community. The Walking Classroom has been invaluable for these students to talk about their health and get outside hearing the English language while learning important content.
– Marin Shanahan, Colorado
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