2013 Volume 58 Issue 1 Pages 343-360
The purpose of this study was to clarify the expansion of the Bewegte Schule concept in Germany and Switzerland. The Bewegte Schule was devised in 1983 by Urs Illi in Switzerland, and the movement was consistently adopted for school education. It has since spread widely through Germany.
The following actions are accomplished selectively in the Bewegte Schule: (1) Dynamic learning space, (2) Exercise breaks during class, (3) Dynamic sitting, (4) Dynamic classes, (5) Dynamic physical education classes, (6) Proposal to exercise out of classes, (7) Active breaks.
This study revealed that the Bewegte Schule encompassed four concepts. There was common recognition that movement was indispensable for the growth of the student in school education, and that it was necessary to move even during classroom lessons. Different theories have led to the development of the Bewegte Schule, including “healthy education”, “school as a life space” and “school culture” etc. In addition, according to examples in three schools, movement was introduced into the school curriculum for various reasons, including inclusive education, school reform, and an all-day school system. The term Bewegte Schule is an umbrella concept that encompasses various ways of thinking.
