Not sure I understand structure along with "comfort" for the classroom?
Hi Michelle,
You are right. By having structure your are creating a learning environment that gives your students direction. The students need to know what is expected of them in terms of both work and behavior. They need to know how you will manage your classroom.
In addition they need to have an environment that is supportive to them. A shabby poorly organized setting sends a message of apathy and non preparation. On the other hand a clean organized classroom/lab says I, as an instructor care about your learning. This setting also allows the instructor to develop rapport with the students easier since they know he/she cares about them.
Gary
