In these times, when we are in thrall to machine learning, artificial intelligence and the like, it’s more important than ever to value our innate human qualities.
Undervalued
One such quality that gets little recognition and is greatly undervalued is physical intelligence. On Radio 4’s Front Row, this week, internationally renowned choreographer Wayne McGregor (in conjunction with theatre legend Ian McKellen) spoke eloquently on this subject. And his message is more relevant than ever to the world of education.
We put a huge amount of value on the spoken and written word. Arguably, the former is supplanting the latter as more people default to gaining information via audio-visual media. However, in his interview, McGregor cites an example of an Ian McKellen performance in which a single gesture sums-up an entire play. He points out that we are all finely attuned to the subtle nuance of movement and gesture. However, we fail to give this ability the attention it deserves.
Physical Language
Through pupil-led creative movement, children can embody a theme or topic. They are able to explore the nature of a subject at a primal level, bypassing the sometimes-complicated need for verbal explanation. In so doing, they hone their skills in relaying ideas physically. And, at the same time, they develop their ability to read the physical language of those around them.
Moving into duette work, this then becomes a dialogue, often with someone with whom they may not otherwise have conversation. As a lesson develops, pupils then form into groups. Now, they need to operate on a higher level of consensus, cooperation and mutual understanding in order to tell their collective story.
Ownership
It’s hard to imagine a scenario in which more information can be assimilated, digested and represented without recourse to explicit instruction. Throughout the process, the children maintain ownership of their work. Whilst they move within defined parameters and structural guidelines, the detail of what they produce is entirely of their own making.
Empathy, Connection & Community
Wayne McGregor talks about ‘kinesphere’ a virtual bubble of influence that surrounds us all. We are prone to collapsing that sphere in social situations, when we really need to – in his words – ‘radiate’. That then allows others greater access and invites more conversation. Through physical interaction, we can therefore help offset the potential for social isolation. By learning to better express ourselves, he points out, “that creates, empathy and that creates connection and that creates community”.
So, creative movement works not only as a powerful learning tool. It also facilitates social engagement and greater mutual understanding. At a point when children are developing intellectually, emotionally and physically, this – then – is an exceptional tool for educators. And, whilst we’re at it, we may like to pay a little more attention to our own physical attention.
Simple Excercise
McGregor suggests one simple exercise to begin the process of greater physical self-awareness. And you may like to give it a try. Next time you brush your teeth, try doing that with your non-dominant hand. See how that makes you feel about what is normally an unconscious habit.
You’re welcome.