The physical setting ideally will work in tandem with the teaching method being used. For example, lecture and group discussion would be difficult to the auditory learner if the classroom environment is being impeded on with outside noise. Also, learning to draw blood in a phlebotomy course solely via visual learning would be difficult if there were a lack of a properly equipped lab for tactile learning. The physical setting not only puts the students in "go mode" mentally, but it is also may be a necessity respective of the learning style being applied.
Hi Sean, Thanks for your post to the forum. it is also a good idea t be in the classroom or just outside as students enter so that you can chat before class. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
I liked the Harvard Business professor's comments. "Make sure to stop students in the hallway after class and individually compliment them. For example, "Good point, Joe, that you made in class discussion today." This shows empathy for the student and builds strong relationship between the student and teacher. The student feels that he/she is cared about and not just another number.
I agree as well. Creating a positive learning environment is crucial for students to have IN the classroom and OUT of the classroom. Support from other students, teachers and support in your daily life is just as important and should not be overlooked.
Hi Tammy, thanks for your post to the forum. I agree that students do enjoy and benefit from group discussion. It is especially useful for the more shy students. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
In my classes I use lecture powerpoint as well as labs with hands on. I have also found that when students are given discussion topics and allowed to have a group session they do very well.
The physical setting should be comfortable - if its too warm/too cold or if there is poor lighting then students or all learning styles can be distracted and not be able to focus on the martial. The instructor should also be supportive and enthusiastic about the material so that the students are comfortable attending class.
Hi Korey, Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes, technology is great - when it works! I tell our new instructors to "always have a Plan B!". Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
Hi Lacey, Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes, we need to be as proactive as possible in this regard. I know that I certainly perform better in some environments than in others. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
A classroom that is not set up for all types of learning leaves some students at a disadvantage. Teachers who have to travel from classroom to classroom are not always able to have the ideal physical setting for their lessons. If, for example, an overhead projector doesn't work, or the room is too small for a kinesthetic activity, learning is compromised.
The physical setting and surrounding are important when it comes to how students learn. When a student is attempting to obtain knowledge, the environment to which they are learning in should be quiet, calm, and free of distractions. Many students may not be able to learn the information they need if the surroundings are inadequate. For instance for someone who relies on reading material to themselves, may have trouble obtaining the information if there is a lot of noise going on in the room. Instructors should try and eliminate any classroom distractions that may disrupt the learning process for any type of learning.
Rearranging class can help with those students who sit in back of class and dont participate as much. Arranging table in a circle helps since students can see each other directly.
Hi Gustavo, Thanks for your post to the forum. As part of a graduate program, I was required to design a similar classroom. It was extremely challenging! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
Hi Gail, Thanks for your post to the forum. You shared some good ideas for the positive learning environment. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
Susan - Thanks for your inquiry. New classrooms are required to support rapidly emerging “technological learning environmentsâ€, where Internet connectivity, simulations, peer-to-peer interactions are a plus in the student tool set supporting their learning. There is a higher interaction between student-student-computer-teacher. A less understood component of modern classrooms is the physical design of the seating, furniture, computer placement, and arrangement of space. Technology rich classrooms should: (1) promote student interaction with media learning tools,(2) foster interaction among students themselves,(3) support communication with teachers, and (4) motivate individual students to learn by doing.
Ergonomics also plays a significant role in technology integration and classroom design or creating positive social environments. Some of the arrangements: (a) U or V shape allows the presenter sight of all of the students’ computers. This design is beneficial to computer-enhanced courses; (b) Cluster arrangement is ideal for small groups, collaboration, and dialectic instruction; (c) The conventional straight row layout resembles a standard lecture classroom; these layout characteristics allow for collaboration among students or the typical lecture/training method; (d) pod arrangements support groups and team work. Regards.
The physical setting is important to create a positive learning environment so that you can optimize learning. some of the physical attributes of the facility are out of your control, such as the size of the room, sometimes even room arrangement if the furniture is stationary, but there are many things that you can adjust to make the student more comfortable. If furniture can be rearranged be sure everyone feels "included". Mix it up so it is not boring sitting in rows all the time. Be sure all students can see and hear everything going on in the class. Keep the conversations positive and include everyone, giving positive feedback and support. Have a place in the room where students know they can access materials, such as resource books, handouts, audio visuals, that they can use even when you may not be available, so they become independent learners.
Hi Marilyn, Thanks for your post to the forum. I have found that room temperature also effects my teaching! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career.
Susan Polick
I agree, we have been experiencing this exact situation lately. Our students have complained about the cold air and seating assignments. I have noticed that they were less focused during lecture and concentrated more on the outside variables instead of their lecture.
I agree with Eric--the classroom setting is essential to learning. Students should feel comfortable in the classroom as well as visual aide can be viewed by everyone. I have found the temperature of the room has an impact as well.
The physical setting is extremely important in creating a positive learning environment. If students are not comfortable due to outside forces such as temperature of the classroom, students will not retain the information needed. Also, if the room temperature is too hot, the same effect will occur.
