I try to provide an environment that supports the students' learning. A comfortable and supportive environment helps the students focus on the goals and objectives of the course which encourages effective learning.
The environment helps set the tone for instruction.
As an adult, I function effectively in a work environment that is organized, orderly, and functional. As an instructor of adult learners, I provide the same type of learning environment for them that is conducive to successful, meaningful learning. Instructional support materials and resources need to be organized and easily accessible to both the instructor and students. This organization will facilitate time-on-task teaching and learning. Preparation for instruction provides this organization, but necessitates that the instructor be adequately prepared with the appropriate instructional supplies and resources, as well as adequate planning for intended learning outcomes. Students are acutely aware of instructional deficiencies and their learning outcomes will reflect this.
I think that if the envoronment is comfortable for the students and the instructor, we will focus on the important part of the suject to be learned. I have also lectured in a lab setting (normally it would not take place), but it was so useful that the students captures the lecture quickly and was well understood. The lecture pertained to learning the different needle gauges and why you would need to choose the correct needle for that particular patient. It set the mood right. I was very pleased with the outcome.
Personally, I believe that if the learning environment is not comfortable students will tune an instructor out and only focus on the negative aspets of their environment.
The learning environment plays a vital role in the instructional process. The classroom environment sets the tone for the student and ususlly once they preceive a first impression thats usually how they feel for the remainder of the quarter. If a lab is not well lit and maintained, the student will have no morale. Also for instance, if stidents who come to lab everyday dont have equipment that works then whne they get iout into the field, they really dont know what to do becuase they had faulty equipment that they never got a chance to use. Yes, theoretically they read about how thing and certain equipment are used, however, if they do not get the clinic or hands-on opportunity then that student did not get their monies worth.
Eunice,
Good way to illustrate how the learning environment can be a quiet place for a period of time as the students focus on learning instead of coping with life issues.
Gary
I like your method for having students put aside their troubles for the 40 minutes during class. I've often told my students that when my children were teenagers, I found my work environment to be an 8 hour escape from life with teenagers. This is a good way to actually demonstrate that idea.
When the learning environment is warm and inviting instruction is easily recieved by students.
Hello
I think a student needs to feel safe and secure in the classroom. In addition, the instructor needs to bring real world experiences into the classroom and show students the material that we covering in the classroom will be used in the real world.
Thanks,
Ali
Learning Environment have great effect on the students. The right atmosphere create motivation and desire to learn. whereas areas which is not supported according to the subject taught can lead the students towards the dropout from the class, showing no interest of learning or killing time by doing other task.
I feel that the learning enviornment is one of the key, fundamental components of education. If the student is not comfortable in the enviornment, then they are not going to be able to concentrate on the task at hand,thier education.
Jill,
Good way to engage students and help them even for a brief time to focus on themselves and their futures. Life is waiting for them outside of the classroom but at least while they are in your class and working through this assignment they are able to graphically see what they are facing and can focus how to work through some of it.
Gary
The learning environment can make or break a class session. If the classroom is freezing cold or boiling hot, it's very difficult for students to focus on the instructor or on a task. Also during group discussion, if one or two students command the discussion or usurp the instructor or criticize other students, then learning halts. Besides being physically comfortable, students need to feel emotionally safe.
One thing this lesson did not address is how students' worries, concerns, and home lives can impact their individual learning environments. As an instructor (and not a counselor), I didn't think I could have any control over this aspect, but then I tried something that had worked for me when I was completely stressed out: a brain dump.
On an especially key class day close to the end of the term (and close to the end of research paper writing), I asked students to take out a sheet of paper and a pen. I told them to fill up at least one side of the paper with everything that was on their minds, all their worries, concerns, everything. I gave them a solid, quiet 10 minutes to write. Then I told students I needed their attention for the next 40 minutes. Their worries and concerns could sit there for that time, and when class was over, they could pick them up again... or throw them away. Many students visibly relaxed and seemed to like the idea, and most did pay better attention that day than the previous few days.
How have others worked to positively affect students' inner environments?
The learning environment plays a huge role in a student's learning. When students feel comfortable and safe, they will open up more and become more involved in their learning. I have noticed on the first day of class, there are a number of students who are very quiet and do not participate in discussions, but by the end of the course, they will volunteer a comment without having to be called upon. As they got to know their fellow students and myself, they were comfortable knowing that no one would ridicule them, and that my classroom had an encouraging environment, so they were more willing to take a chance to express themselves.
The learning environment is very important. Students should feel this is "their" space during class. It is often beneficial to have the environment setup with reinforcing posters, pictures for the class. Computer labs should have installed the proper software.
The learning environment plays a significant role in the instructional process. Discomfort may trigger negative, (childhood school days) memories in some adult students. This can put the student into defensive mode. Defensive mode can be detrimental to the student, their peers, and the instructor.
The learning environment role is one that will promote instruction and support from all faculty/staff, employees that is conducive and supportive of all students needs
Being an IT instructor, a computer lab helps facilitate the learning process and puts the student in the correct frame of mind upon entering the class setting.
I also can lecture and utilize the lab pc's for hands on training allowing use of demonstration, and leading students to self discovery.
The learning environment is very important. I have a lengthwise classroom and some students can't see the screen so it is difficult to use powerpoint. Also the classroom was over 90 degrees when the air was broken. Though the environment isn't always physical, it is mental also. If students feel they are having a good time they will remember things.
