sensory overload
distraction with all this activity my draw students' attention away from the class and the content.
I work with a young demographic and the music recommended could poss. annoy some of these students. I would try a few diffdrent types and then decide or take a vote.
Clearly the type of sensory additions made to a classroom should be focused on what is most useful to students. Making a change just to make a change is not likely to benefit anyone. Depending on the subject you teach, your student's age and classroom size, some additions will be more logical. You are also constrained by your school's scheduling policies. At my school, our classroom's frequently change and are used by other teachers throughout the day; thus, we are not allowed to "personalize" the room too much. I would imagine this is the case at most colleges, with the exception of labs, etc.
I can remember playing the oldies but goodies one time and a student that i had problems engaging was suddenly entergized. That meant the world to me to see her smile.
denise,
I think you demonstrate the point here. Before making any changes you need to make sure that you truly know your class & students & that you are making the most/best informed decision for them & to promote their learning. Great job!
Dr. Ryan Meers
I agree. Having too much too fast would be very distracting. Keeping things low key and introducing them in a manner that's not distracting would be key.
I have students that feel overwhelmed just with the program they are learning in class. How would they react to these changes?
Kimberly,
Admittedly we have to be very careful in how we introduce the different elements. If you've never had music in the class before, I would avoid suddenly introducing very loud music. Start slowly & even explain to the students what you're doing. And if it doesn't work, try something else!
Dr. Ryan Meers
These are interesting and no doubt valid ideas, but I am unsure how my students would reconcile to having the additional distractions in the room.
I agree and that is why i mix it up. Don't have it the same way every day. Could be as simple as rearranging desks, tables, equipment
We do need to be careful, as we are incorporating more & more technology into our classes that we still keep instruction as the main focus.
Ryan
