Learning Environment
Years ago when I started teaching at my current college, the learning environment was poor. The school was behind technology times and lacked the support students needed to succeed. Over the past three years the school has spent the funds in adapting the facilities and upgrading the systems. I know that our students are more successful because the learning environment has allowed them greater opportunities. The environment plays an important role in the success of our students. From the atmosphere, classroom layout, technology, color, and look of our buildings we create a learning environment. What we have to offer our students leads to their success.
I would have to completely agree with you on that. Not only do students need the technology aspect but they also need to be able to go to a place they want to spend time at. Most of our students are leaving families at home to come to school so its very important that they feel that their time is being well spent.
HI Christine - I have worked in Faculty Development for many years and have also enjoyedatching the progression of educational technology. Some of my most "Tech-Resistant" instructors have eventually become the most proficient! Susan
i too have seen a huge investment over the years at our school. It has really made a difference and not in the obvious way of having the right equptment, but in the technology as well. It has been [pretty interesting watching us as instructors become more comfortable with different technology, like online grading and interacting with our classes and has given the teachers a chance to find out what our learning styles are!
Hi Michael - Thanks for a great post. I totally agree that we need to be sure that everything works, not only the environment. Faculty play an especially significant role and curriculum needs to be relevant and well planned. Best wishes- Susan
A good learning environment is a good investment. A major investment may not bring satisfactory returns if other components are not at levels somewhat comparable to the learning environment. A school with a great course management system, plenty of computers, and superb work stations may not produce results that are as good as a school with reasonable versions of the above, if the former comes with outdated textbooks, faculty that is only marginally trained, and a lack of a comprehensive vision for success.
Learning environment plays a main role. If we have right IT tools and modular desks we can work in a better way with our students
Hi Andy - Thanks for your post to the forum. As you mention, money spent to improve the learning environment is always well spent. Best wishes- Susan
