FUN!
Meaningful learning is obtained when students make connections to the lessons presented. When activities and lessons are fun they become more interesting and are therefor more memorable. Fun is essential to authentic learning and long-term memory.
INTERACTIVE
Brainstorming, debating, and group exercises are all methods of developing active students, who are present in the classroom not only in body but in mind.
Inviting students to participate in the learning process, and encouraging them to think outside the box enables them to take control of their learning and own their education. Invigorating students to look at a topic from a diagnostic standpoint, and develop critical problem solving skills, helps to promote a healthy foundation of learning and growing.
When students are truly absorbed in there task, through movement and fun, they will foster a commitment to their learning that expands outside of the classroom and blossoms into life long learning.
INTERESTING
Children need to acquire a level of interest in the material being taught in order to fully obtain all the benefits of the lessons and objectives being placed before them.
By formulating lessons plans that play into a child's affections and habits, it generates curiosity and propels them to challenge themselves to rise to innovative learning environments. when a child is genuinely interested in a topic, they will excel in it and want to repeat it over and over again, until they achieve perfection.
The personality and motivation of the facilitator also plays a vital role in the attentiveness and engrossment of the child and the learning cycle. Creating a fun and dynamic learning atmosphere will only better the academic growth of the child.
ENGAGING
Enthusiasm of embracing each day with a genuine excitement of learning is what fosters the highest-level executive thinking, creation of connections, and produces the most "aha" moments in students.
When students are having fun they are increasing dopamine, endorphins, and oxygen all of which boost brain growth. The human brain responds positively to laughter by releasing endorphins, epinephrine (adrenaline) and dopamine. As one laughs there is also an increase in breathing (higher levels of oxygen).
Incorporating humor in lessons not only engages children but it allows them to attach to the event as a positive emotional memory and solidify the information learned.
STIMULATING
Stimulating lessons provide students with positive learning experiences in which they make personal and positive connections. Building an interest in a concept or topic by employing motivating, captivating, and inspiring techniques is essential to student growth.
Optimal brain activation occurs when students feel like they are in positive emotional states, the material holds personal meaning, the lessons connect to student interests, and curiosity and wonder are evoked.
When a child feels personal meaning or connection to a topic, attentiveness is enhanced on a biological level. The new information is passed through the limbic system and enhanced as it reaches the thalamus. It is the thalamus that controls attention and focus.