I think that if cwork that is passed out is printed in colors, and the classroom, is decorated in a way that contributes to the class, these elements could possibly play a role in the students' learning. alos, certain colors may be used as codes for certain activites in the class. This could also enhace their the students' learning.
I have found that using displaying stuents projects and works of art is helpful. i personlly like color and feel it is very helpful for some learners. Music on ther other hand can motivate or frustrate some. I use music in a lab setting so that there is background noise that will not drown out what the students are accomplishing.
Richard,
the different colors for different topics or ideas or subjects is a great way to help all of the students in distinguishing the information.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like the idea of different color sheets for different types of handouts. I could also incorporate the idea of instrumental music during certain times of the class meeting. One last option I could use would be the use of peripherals.
I really liked the tips regarding this topic. I am reevaluating all my classrooms to include new visuals and make the learning environment more conducive.
Victor,
this is true, how would you see some of the variance impacting?
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
i believe it varies on the type of audience and the type of information you are teaching to the students
Maria,
this is a great idea, & also incorporating the old whiteboard is a great way to mix it up.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Depending of the topics being discussed. I like using PowerPoint with my lectures, as well as incorporate any videos that complement my lecture.
Elizabeth,
music can add to the learning & help with retention of facts.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I had read research that supports the use of instrumental music designed to increase concentration in the classroom, and I have been wanting to try it. Now I will, and I will try using it only during individual and small group activities. I can also increase the use of color and visuals in my classroom by placing colorful visuals that are content related peripherally around the classroom.
Israel,
yes, the music can be a help to many students with the studying & test taking.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have tried using sitting charts music and i have found that in most cases this works. I have played music during test and it's all instrumental soft music, and i have seen an increase in students scores. I have done it in some of my other classes and so far it has been an excellent tool. Thank you for your time.
I have used all of the above except the music. I would really like to try that and see what what the difference is.
Alessandra,
this is a great idea & can be helpful to your kinesthetic learners as well.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
The implementation of daily physical activity requires careful and creative planning specially when working with the adult population. I often play around with them saying that we will do ZUMBA. I promote walks in the parking lot and stress boll exercises. When I teach medical orientation we discuss nutrition including visuals and music.
Alex
William,
it really can be a great tool to use, obviously we have to gauge it appropriately for our class & topic, but can be powerful.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like the idea of using music in the classroom. I never thought abou that before. I can see how some classical music could have a calming effect on the students. Also I can see how it could really get their creative juices flowing while they are working on a project or exercise.
Clare,
great points; in regard to seating, I've found that the horseshoe or "U" is the best for facilitating discussion.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I think that a visual classroom can be very engaging and I think having students participate in their education is critical to them retaining their knowledge. Seating to arrange class discussion and group participation is necessary to facilitate the format of the course. We have all tried to have discussions in lecture halls where someone always has to turn around in their seat and it is uncomfortable. Music has been shown to stimulate the brain so that it is ready for higher learning.
