Research summary
Incorporating physical activity directly into classrooms can increase student learning. But little is known about how or why this works—and most classrooms remain sedentary. Dr. Barbara Fenesi, Canada Research Chair in the Science of Learning, aims to change this.
Fenesi and her research team are investigating the neuropsychological processes through which physical activity increases student attention and promotes learning. They also aim to identify best practices for incorporating physical activity into lessons by examining the duration, type and frequency of activity that best supports learning, including for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Ultimately, their goal is to develop evidence-based interventions involving classroom physical activity that will promote academic success for all students.