Guðrún Óskarsdóttir

What happens if we apply movements based on the fundamental movement patterns in the classroom? In this research, Brain-compatible dance education, developed by Anne Green Gilbert, was used to answer the research question.

 

Brain-compatible dance education is about creating an environment in which the brain is ready, willing and able to learn. Braindance is one aspect of Gilbert’s pedagogy and is based on the fundamental movement patterns that babies move through in their first year of life.

 

During the autumn semester of 2021, students in one primary school in the Reykjavik capital area performed Braindance under the guidance of a supervising teacher for 3 - 7 minutes daily. A total of 52 students in 1st, 3rd and 5th grade along with their supervising teachers participated.

 

Teachers received updated worksheets weekly where the emphasis and vocabulary was adjusted within the dance themes. Data was collected via classroom visits twice a week during the period using a qualitative research method.

 

Materials included a research diary, interviews with teachers, conversations with students, questionnaires for 5th grade students and video recordings of students performing Braindance.
 

 

 

The data suggests that Braindance offers important opportunities in the school setting. Data further suggests that students experienced increased energy, concentration, well-being, and calmness, while some noted increased fatigue after the practice.

 

The results indicate that exercises based on development movement patterns, such as Braindance, can influence and increase well-being, energy and concentration, which could help students' receptiveness to further learning.

 

 

Guðrún Óskarsdóttir
gudrunoskars [at] swift.is
Advisor: Ingimar Ólafsson Waage
30 ECTS
2022