Why Kinetic Learning Matters

We’ve Heard About Kinetic Learning…But What’s The Big Deal?

Keeping students engaged and excited about learning can be challenging, especially when it comes to learning about complex subjects such as DNA and the human genome. Dense textbooks only get you so far and cheesy learning materials don’t always cut it or allow your students to fully absorb and apply what they’ve learned. To counter this, many schools and classrooms all over the country have taken the dive into kinetic learning! But what exactly is kinetic learning and why does it matter especially for science-oriented classes?

Kinetic learning is a teaching method that focuses on presenting information in a visual manner that is often able to be physically manipulated through models and activities. Not only does kinetic learning help present complex concepts in a visual manner, but it has also been shown to provide a variety of benefits that help students not just memorize but learn and engage with the information presented. 

DNA + Kinetic Learning = Engaged Students

At DNA and Beyond, we understand that learning about DNA is no easy feat! DNA itself is exceptionally complex which is why we developed a fantastic teaching tool to assist students in understanding the main building blocks of life. But what exactly are some of the benefits of kinetic learning as opposed to just visual or auditory learning?

Increased Information Retention

Kinetic learning is an excellent way to boost information retention and assists students in grasping complex concepts in a visual manner. By physically manipulating a model, students can gain greater understanding of how DNA is structured and how it functions within our cells. 

Improved Critical Thinking Skills

Unlike memorizing words in a textbook, kinetic learning is an excellent way to strengthen critical thinking skills by means of trial and error. Unlike just audio and visual learning methods which present information, kinetic learning encourages students to problem solve.

Improved Muscle Memory

Another benefit of kinetic learning is improved muscle memory which boosts understanding and retention of different concepts.

Problem Solving Skills

Another fantastic benefit of kinetic learning is that it encourages students to take risks and solve problems. Having a tool or model present allows students to fully-engage with the concept and try new things to understand why they work or why they may not. 

What We Did About It

Combining kinetic learning with visual and audio is an excellent way for students to grasp complex concepts and engage with the material presented to them in a way that builds confidence and problem solving skills which is a necessary component to succeeding in the sciences and non-science related careers. To help students learn about this fascinating subject, DNA and Beyond developed a 38-inch, flexible DNA model featuring 21 color coded rungs combined with lessons and activities to help students build a strong foundation in the sciences and beyond. The model also comes with a pair of tiny methyl molecules that can be plugged into the model to demonstrate how gene sequences can be “methylated” causing it to “rest” or turn off. With our dynamic and flexible 3D model, learning about DNA has never been easier!

Take a Test Drive First

If you’ve read this far, it means we’ve caught your interest about the model.  But perhaps you aren’t ready to go out and buy it.  “What do I do with it once I buy it?” you might ask.  

Well, we have some good news!  Whenever you purchase one of our DNA models, you also get access to our online curriculum that does all the heavy lifting when it comes to teaching about DNA.  Our online curriculum is broken down into lessons, quizzes, and activities to help students not just memorize the subject matter, but fully engage with and apply what they’ve learned as well. 

But before you buy, you can totally take it for a test drive.  Click the link below and sign up to see why this is such an amazing product and learning experience for students. Click here to get started!