It is, however, an approach to learning that will change the way educators view their students and will change teaching styles for the better. I have taught for 20 years and have never been rejuvenated in the classroom as I am now. When becoming dehydrated, the brain starts to shut down. Educators often have access to something cool to drink during the day or even in workshops. If that is not available, educators are antsy about sitting in a two hour conference and often are thinking of other things such as, what ballgame the kids have to be taken to that night, or what is on the grocery list.
Students operate in the same manner.
Reducing some of those feelings of searching for a basic need, such as water, the student will bring learning back into focus. Allowing students access to water bottles or jugs of water with small cups, helps the brains physiologically need respond in a productive manner instead of an adverse manner. As with anything in the classroom, modeling the appropriate ways to have a water bottle at the desk, or modeling how to handle pouring water correctly, and showing students what is acceptable is the key to positive implementation. Many educators often respond that the usage of the bathroom will become a problem, however once implementing this strategy, educators find that the novelty of the experience and the privilege of water access outweigh any other deterrent. Educators pair students up and give them a topic, subtopics, and categories to discuss.