Movement Literacy as a First Language

Movement is an inseparable part of our daily lives. Research indicates that learning through the moving body (embodiment) is meaningful learning. This chapter presents language of movement as a necessary avenue in the study of literacy and learning, and describes perceptions, uses, and applications of kinesthetic language as part of the learning experience. The language of movement is described as a literacy learned at three levels: Level 1 focuses on movement tools as applicable in learning in cultural fields. Level 2 is fed by movement aspects and perceptions as they support a learning space. Level 3 is fed by perceptions of relations between variables, seeing each existential space as composed of a collection of stimuli equal in value to and enabling focus on the creation of a learning space. A learning space can be envisaged as one that offers a rich arena for mutual interaction of expression, learning and creation, enriching and supporting the expansion of the learner's world, necessary for active, innovative, experimental, inquisitive, and boundary-breaking involvement.