My classes are mainly in the computer lab. I make sure that the computers are set up correctly to be comfortable. I make it a point the first day to make sure they are not nervous around the computer. I don't want anyone walking away the first day thinking they can't handle the work. We go over things over and over again so they start feeling comfortable.
The learning environment plays an important role in the overall instructional process. Students must feel comfortable and have the necessary resource materials available. Since I teach in an online learning environment, the course layout is important. Students must be able to access materials, instructions, assignments, and resources with ease. This increases their confidence with online learning and makes them feel more comfortable in the learning environment. All hyperlinks should be working so students can quickly reach the needed information.
Once the basic structure is prepared, the online learning environment can be adapted to maximize the instructional process by adding enhancements. Including assignments that offer students an opportunity to apply new skills that have real life application is important. Students increase their self confidence when they can apply new classroom learning immediately. Offering role playing opportunities and both asynchronous as well as synchronous classroom communication can also maximize the online instructional process.
Environment is crucial to success! Just as the environment in which we live shapes us to a large extent, the environment in which we learn shapes not only our understanding of the materials but our view of the materials as well.
If a student is forced to learn in an uncomfortable environment, they may retain the information but they will more than likely view it in an unpleasant light.
The learning environment needs to support learning. With distance education, I like to use different techniques and measurements to try to reach diverse students. I use written assignments as well as exams and critical thinking and discussion questions to appeal to different students.
I find that the learning environment can and needs to be able to change from session to session. Although most of our labs are designed for a specific subject area it becomes necessary to adapt to the students needs. the instructors teaching style and or experience in the subjest matter and or the physical work being done in the lab. For expample preparation tables serve as desks for note/test taking. Equipment, storage and product needs will fluxuate based on number of students and space provided. It is very important to know all the details of the instruction to be given to determine the set up and layout of the learning environment. Comfortable may not equate to efficients and you can lose credibility if the learning experience is watered down with to much comfort.
The learning environment plays a critical role in the instructional and learning process. A synergistic and collaborative environment can support and effect student achievement and attitudes regardless of pedagogical contexts.
Learning can be difficult for learners if the environment is not conducive to learning. I try to integrate various methods of instruction; given some students learn better visually and some are better kinetic learners, while others are verbal and auditory.
This is an essential and often overlooked component. Learning is tied to emotions and emotions often taps into the senses which is what creating a learning environment can do.
Cold or hot rooms, dust and clutter, droning of a heater all contribute. Someone did a study on the musical notes that can be assigned to a the hum of a computer for example. If that note is a C and the drone of the heater is a D it creates a constant dissonant sound in our ear which can create irritability. Seriously!
Our body language also contributes to the environment. I always tell instructors that everything you say and do and even body language sends a messagae to students that will help or hinder learning. Smiling is huge!
Hi Timothy,
This is critical for career training. Setting up the classroom and lab based upon business/industry standards. This shows the students that you are serious about their education plus it eases their transition to the real world since they will have worked on equipment and used supplies that directly reflective of their field.
Gary
The learning environment sets the tone for the students.
Making sure the classrooms has all the supplies needed for the lecture, activities and so forth.
Making sure from the students perspective, that the room is comfortable and conducive to learning.
These will help crete an environment that is "student-friendly.
Bev
I teach at culinary school and in the kitchen it is important that the environment is realistic to the industry so it sets it up for the student can learn.
Hi Laura,
Right you are about the environment needing to be right for the students. If it isn't it is very difficult to recapture the attention of the students and get them settled into the class.
Gary
The learning environment should enhance the instructional process. It should be comfortable and friendly to help students focus better on the course content.
When ever possible I like to set the room in U shape so students can watch each other and the environment will be less formal.
If the learning environment is full of distractions and noise then the students cabability to comprend the necessary material is not going to be to its fullest. Arriving early to prep the classroom and rid it of any unnecessary items could be one way to maximize the process.
Hi David,
Teaching evening classes are a challenge. As those are all that I teach I know I have to have a lot of activities and projects going to keep the students focused on the class content. I keep the pace fast and keep the students moving and I always run out of time before I run out of content.
Gary
Hi Katie,
You are correct about factoring in all the variables when it comes to meeting student needs. It is a challenge to offer individualized instruction to the masses yet that is the job we have assigned to us. Make each student feel that he/she is the target of instruction from the instructor. It is possible but does take a lot of effort. It is also very rewarding when the students are successful as a result of your efforts.
Gary
I could not agree with you any more well put.I teach an evening class and I understand students have already had a full day and the enviroment is different than an earlier schedule.
One way to address creating a solid learning environment is to take into consideration the unique learner needs. Adjusting the structure and delivery style based on the students in the course. Depending on the size, learning style(s), time, location, etc all make a difference. By adapting instructor style one can make a big difference in the overall learning environment! Katie
I am a science instructor and so the learning environment in the lab is very important. Not only is there special equipment needed but also several disposable/support materials that are needed each week. I have to be sure that these are prepared in advance so that the learning can begin when lab starts. Students often work in pairs or small groups and so chair may have to be moved to facilitate the group discussions/activities.
The laerning environment is key for two reasons. When students are comfortable with the environment they will be more relaxed and learning has a better chance of taking nplace. #2 - If you set a good example to thue students they will draw from how they should be. An environment that is not condusive to learning is discouraging to students and creat anomosity.
I agree Dominic,
This also has the effect that the students will take notice when an instrutor is organized and on point. Creating a comfortable atmosphere for the students physically and mentally you are being a mentor by setting a good example of how they should also be while in school and when the go into the real world.
