Program
Teaching M.A.
Number of Pages
68
Year Approved
2025
First Advisor
Bergeland, John
Second Reader
Lisa Silmser
Abstract
This thesis investigates how brain breaks, also known as activity breaks, impact student learning and retention as well as student overall well-being. The compiled research in this review demonstrates how breaks taken throughout the day not only help with health benefits, but also help students academically. Breaks help students perform better in the classroom, but even more importantly, students reported greater focus, engagement, and less restlessness after taking either a brain or academic break. This is reinforced through effective classroom implementation and proper application of brain breaks. Examples of common brain breaks include a video with active instructions to get students out of their seats, lessons from the instructor that use active movement, or a component of recess or PE class. Lastly, this thesis investigates professional application and effective go-forward policies to properly provide education about the benefits of brain breaks from the administrative level.
Degree Name
Teaching M.A.
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Recommended Citation
Graeve, N. R. (2025). Improving Academics Using Brain Breaks [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/1165
Terms of Use and License Information
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