Hello, I’m Dr. Lina Chiappone and welcome to EDU 600 Module 3. In this module we will cover Accomplished Practice a.2 – The Learning Environment.
SLIDE
The Learning Environment is a very general term that we hear a lot, so let’s start by defining the Learning Environment. We are not only talking about the physical space, but also the human qualities that create the learning space. A healthy learning environment also involved appropriate use and organization of the classroom, daily schedules and routines, and a positive social and emotional atmosphere for all students.
SLIDE
In order to maintain a students-centered learning environment we want to have an environment that is: safe, effective, challenging, organized, equitable, flexible, inclusive, and collaborative. All of these criteria need to work in convert with the theoretical framework of your school, the curriculum, and the standards you follow.
*BREAK*
PHOTO V.O.
In order to have the environment that described before, the first thing that we need to know is that the classroom design needs to be appropriate to the school level. For example the Preschool classrooms are organized into interest areas and learning centers.
PHOTO V.O.
The Elementary classrooms also use learning centers and some other modified layouts depending on the activity the students are doing.
PHOTO V.O.
In Middle and High School classrooms, teacher’s should also use different classroom layouts, depending on the activity the students are doing and the tools they may be using during the activity.
SLIDE
At any grade level, it’s important that youcreate a warm environment. Don’t hesitate to provide a personal touch, such as cozy pillows for a reading corner or a wall of student work so that the students can display their progress. The room needs to be organized appropriately so the students have access to all necessary materials, tools, and resources. Please enjoy this short video about a teacher who uses positive expectations to create a comfortable classroom environment.
*BREAK*
SLIDE
Classroom management is also part of the socio-emotional classroom atmosphere. Have anwell-organized classroom and a well-planned classroom management system. Have clear expectations for student behavior and be consistent with you class rules. Model clear, acceptable oral and writing communication skills and use rules and procedures for the transitions betweenall activities.
*BREAK*
GRAPHIC V.O.
Routines are the backbone of daily classroom life. They facilitate teaching and learning and they save valuable classroom time. When routines and procedures are carefully taught, modeled, and established in the classroom, children know what’s expected of them and how to do certain things on their own. Having these predictable patterns in place allows teachers to spend more time in meaningful instruction. Routines and procedures are the key to a well-managed, organized classroom.
SLIDE
It’s very common for people to think that learning environment is just about the physical space but it’s also about the socio-emotional atmosphere that we have in our classrooms. A healthy socio-emotional atmosphere, first and foremost, is about building positive relationships in the classroom. Take some time to get to know your students and make them feel welcome in the classroom by using positive comments and maintaining a climate of openness and support.
SLIDE
When we talk about socio-emotional classroom atmosphere we need to talk about the importance of building a culturally relevant and inclusive environments for our students. Some tips include acknowledging the presence of diverse students and the need for these students to find relevant connections among themselves and with the subject matter, adapting the learning environment to accommodate the differing needs and diversity of students, and establishing a classroom atmosphere that respects diversity.
*BREAK*
PHOTO V.O.
Teachers can enhance students’ self-esteem when they construct learning environments that reflect their background. For young children include images, such as artwork, books, music, toys, learning centers, curricular lessons, poems, literature, and games. For older students include images, such as artwork, textbooks, displays, school promotional materials, display positive and purposeful activities and events involving diverse people. Include, for example, local and national newspaper articles reporting newsworthy events or accomplishments that involve community leaders from diverse backgrounds and incorporate literature with diverse characters.
SLIDE
I hope you’ve learned a lot from this presentation on the many dynamics of the learning environment. Please complete the quiz for Module 3. Thank you!