A literature review on the empirical studies of technology-based embodied learning

Engaging Young Students in Effective Robotics Education: An Embodied Learning-Based Computer Programming Approach

“…However, no statistically significant difference was reached in the two groups’ cognitive load, suggesting that incorporating the EL-CP approach into the robotics course did not impose excessive cognitive loads on students. This finding was in accordance with previous studies (e.g., Moore et al, 2020; Zhong et al, 2021; Zhong et al, 2022). To be more specific, the embodied-based learning activities of the EL-CP group took place in a conventional classroom setting rather than in a novel environment that required students to grapple with multimodal perceptions and motor responses (Johnson-Glenberg et al, 2014).…”

“…Embodied learning is an educational practice derived from the embodied cognition theory, which emphasizes the significance of active engagement of learners’ bodies in the learning process (Danish et al, 2020; Hung et al, 2018; Skulmowski et al, 2016; Weisberg & Newcombe, 2017). With this learning approach, learners can construct abstract knowledge through concrete sensorimotor experiences (Weisberg & Newcombe, 2017; Zhong et al, 2021; Zhong, et al, 2022). Hence, embodied learning can provide educational researchers and practitioners with a creative and flexible instructional approach to build meaningful linkages between the learner’s body, cognition, and learning environment to facilitate their construction of specific knowledge and skills (Hung et al, 2018; Merkouris & Chorianopoulos, 2019; Skulmowski et al, 2016).…”

“…Several studies have introduced embodied learning in STEM education (e.g., Hayes & Kraemer, 2017; Weisberg & Newcombe, 2017; Zhong et al, 2021). To be more specific, some research has explored the use of robots for embodied learning (Merkouris & Chorianopoulos, 2019; Moore et al, 2020; Zhong et al, 2022).…”

“…It can be seen that embodied learning can become an effective approach to facilitate the connection between knowledge representation and bodily movements, especially in learning abstract concepts. More importantly, it can enhance students’ learning achievement, learning engagement, and learning attitudes, and reduce their cognitive load (Kwon et al, 2022; Merkouris & Chorianopoulos, 2019; Zhong et al, 2021). To our knowledge, previous research has discussed the effectiveness of the use of robots for embodied learning or incorporating embodied learning into robots to promote students’ learning and cognitive skills.…”

“…Embodied learning is the latest development of embodied cognition theory, which emphasizes the importance of active interaction between the learner’s body and the environment in the cognitive process (Johnson-Glenberg et al, 2014; Shapiro, 2019; Zhong et al, 2021). Embodied learning is a powerful facilitator in educational settings that inspires educators to build meaningful connections between the learner’s body, cognition, and learning environment to facilitate learners’ construction of knowledge and skills.…”