Creating a multi-sensory learning environment serves the interests of students and instructors. If color schemes are dictated by the educational facility, it may be a good idea to speak with campus leadership regarding a fresh approach to the classroom environment. The use of color, sound, student positioning, and other creative touches can yield benefits that are not completely measureable. Sometimes, students exit the classroom and do not realize why they are not fatigued or surprised that the time flew by while in class. Careful attention to educational environments can make a make a difference in the learning experience. Have the students sit in other seats each day. Have group activities; give the students something to manipulate (particularly kinesthetic learners).
I teach with the use of technologically based visuals and I often try to use proper color schemes to keep the students engaged but not distracted. I like mixing it up with blue, green and pastels.
billie,
yes, it is definitely something to dig into a little deeper if you want to have maximum impact.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
By truly analyzing the physchology of colors you can decide which color is most appropriate for the assignments at hand
All of these ideas sound great. The current room is very sterile by design. I plan to submit these ideas to the executive director in hopes that she will consider allowing a bit of personality to inspire learning.
I agree with you Troy. It all depends on your students in your class. I have 64 students in my theory classes and they all fall into different categories as far as learning aptitude, personality and maturity. It is key to know what kind of music or colors will work with which group. These tools can be very useful in the correct enviorment. I have used soft music for my more aggressive disruptive students intermitently and this has been a great help.
Elisa,
all of these things can add some new "life" to the classroom & it can really help to highlight different ideas, topics, etc.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I didn't realize the importance of choosing a color for using on the whiteboard! In the past I just picked any old color that worked!
I like the idea of placing visuals around the classroom, and plan to do this for my next lecture.
Currently our classroom is set up lecture hall style, chairs behind tables. I plan to change the seating arrangement during group activities.
Terence,
this is a great idea & helps them connect with the culture behind the dish.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like to use instrumental, ethnic music when students are preparing ethnic cuisine. I think it sets the mood for the preparation of exotic foods and enhances the experience.
I would appreciate the opportunity to use music in the classroom, as well as have the opportunity to use posters, etc., on the walls; however, I am unable to employ this into the classroom because of corporate rules.
thanks for color ideas!!!
Eric,
these are all great ideas & ways to help highlight different information & transition during the class.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Different color copy paper can be used for material that you pass out. Music can be used for transitional purposes. Also you can arrange seats in groups to foster group work.
After taking this course I implemented some of the suggestions such as placing colored paper at the tables, using different fragrancies and occassionally playing music. What I found was just the novelty of these simple additions prestimulated my students minds and engaged them before the classes actually started.
Paul,
the combination of the flip charts & the different colors are a great strategy especially in the area of facilitation.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I use color markers on my white board. I have changed my seating and I use props during lectures.
i usually allow the students to chose their environment they will be working in. if it does not work i start to accomodate.
I work mostly with adults thru facilitation. I find using alternate colors on flip charts allows for them to decipher content quicker. I also employ colorful sticky notes and magic markers for them to use when they are breaking down complex data and reassembling the data. The use of the colored pens and sticky notes help reduce the facilitating time and adds clarity to a complex process. Basically takes the complex and makes it simple for everyone. Naturally butcher block, easels and the walls are integrated in the process. I do not employ music.
Blanca,
displaying their work is a great idea as it provides the color & the variety & also inspires the other students for their future work.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
