In writing classes, student frequently like to use it as form of therapy, reliving old abuses, either child abuse or spousal abuse. When I encourage them to choose another topic, it is often as though they think I am not validating thier experience. I ask them to use a private journal an then to try to focus on a positive aspect of "moving on' as perhaps a better topic for a paper.
Martha Moore
It can either help the class run smooth or not
A positive learning environment is conducive to learning. Students are willing to listen and can learn better in a positive atmosphere. Using positive language such as 'and' instead of 'but' makes a difference in how a student perceives the message being conveyed. For instance, One can say, "I'll speak to you later," or "I'll speak to you, but not now." The latter carries negative connotations.
A learning environment that is not structured or appears to be intimidating can really set the students up for failure. Many shut down upon the first impression howeverits so important that the environment be welcoming, structured, and informative.
The learning environment is very important as an art instructor because not only must the student be comfortable(i.e. desk height, lighting, seating, etc.)but the instructor should be able to easily monitor the students progress without invading or dissrupting their space and concentration.
Jill has stated key points about the learning environment. Her technique for assisting students to focus on the lesson is insighful.
The learning environment has to be exciting. The students need to feel that its worth coming to school, after all there paying a lot of money to be here. If you set an interesting and exciting class room they will show up on time and stay interested in what your teaching.
The learning environment has an enormous effect on the behavioral perceptions of the students. Apart from the physical environment, the attitudes and professionalism displayed by the instructor, along with the relevant developmental behaviors required by the learning institution through its policies etc., will have a lasting impact on the future careers of the students.
I love the idea of nourturing the inner environment as well as the outer. I plan to try the suggested exercise with my class asap. Im thankfull for the assistance provided by this CE.
I cant wait to use that idea in my classes. Thank for sharing that. I see so much stress in the eyes of some of my students. It will be interesting to see how it pays off.
The learning enviroment is key to ensuring effective learning. I can be the best teacher in the world but a cold or hot classroom makes an impact on a students ability to learn. Resources to deliver it also key, a projector that works.
The learning environment plays a very important role in the delivery of instructional materials. You need to make sure that the classroom is appropriate for the purpose of the class and that it is a comfortable and conducive environment to learn in.
If you don't have the right environment, the students can be easily distracted. One thing I like to do is make sure they leave any personal buisness from interfering with their learning experience. So I pass out sticky notes and ask them before class if something is bothering them. I have them write it on the stickynote and place it under the chair. it seems like once they write it down, they can concentrate on what I am teaching.
t provides a comfortable and supportive learning site in which the student can focus on the course content more effectively.
Being comfotable in a classroom is my main objective for my students.If they are not comfortable, they won't be bale to learn because they won't be able to focus
Julie,
In your case since your students are working in a lab setting you can strive to make the temperature comfortable but you can also remind the students that is cooler because that is how labs operate. By making it cooler you are setting the temp at the same level they are going to be working in the real world. If they cannot adjust to that temp then they may not be able to work in a lab and they need to select another career area. The point is you are using an industrial/career standard for setting the temp.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
The environment allows students to focus on their course work. I have found what is comfortable for one student is not comfortable for the next as far as the physical temperature in the classroom. Oftentimes I will lower the heat in lab environments to mimic the feel of the lab and hopefully make it more difficult for bacteria to grow. Many students prefer the classroom to be warm and others adult learners are already too warm and uncomfortable. I advise my students who are cold to wear lab jackets, however, they would prefer the environment be at their specified temperature. This has actually caused strife between students and I would love suggestions regarding how best to provide an environment that works for all my students.
The learning environment can greatly effect the class as a whole or the indivdule student. If the student has learning issues then the set up of the class can aid or take away from the learning of a student. The environment can enhance learning with proper working equipment or take away with lack of suppies in general. Any form of distraction can take away from the learning environment and the learning process of the students.
A very important one. If the learning environment is right the learning process is adequate to carry out your objectives as an instructor. Students become more aware of their needs to learn.
The learning environment plays an important role in how well the student's are able to focus & learn. Therefore, as an instructor it is essential to ensure that the learning environment enables student's the opportunity to learn & perform at their best.
