Classroom
I believe it is very important about the atmosphere of the classroom. If I am tense the class room is going to feel it too. I feel the class room should be a place, of course learning, but also the class room should be fun, educating,exciting a place where the student can learn without pressures of the outside world. Also everywhere they look in the room should encouragement and learning aids.
I also agree having a positive attitude can set the atomosphere of a classroom. I plan to use more visual aids in the room and will try music.
I believe that the entire classroom should be geared towards learning including colors, music, and participation of students.
Rita,
yes, the instructor has the most control over the atmosphere of the room.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
This is so true the atmosphere is vital to learning.
Paul,
yes, certain environments definitely are not the most conducive to learning or teaching. Sounds like you are doing well in trying to accomodate in this situation.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Right next to my classroom is the sever room with all the hot electrical equipment that needs to be cooled down. Well there is this drowning sound of several fans that go 24/7 and I have to compete with this noise, I find myself raising my voice to be over heard all the time, and when I have silent reading time I play music to help drown out this hypnotic atmosphere. Sometimes it is a challenge to keep coming up with the appropriate mood music and sound level.
Jeff,
this is very true; our attitudes have a significant impact on the overall environment/climate of the classroom.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have found that I have to leave whatever is happening in my personal life at the door when walk in. If I am upset or tired, it has a direct effect on how my students perceive my instruction. It can create a barier to learning if my students are afraid to ask questions...
John,
you are right regarding the need to provide a place where there is as little stress as possible. Studies have shown how stress reduces the ability to learn.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I am convinced that the classroom has to be inviting and a refuge for education. If it is possible I try to make the class free from stress and foster a great desire to be there to learn. The color makes so much sence to me that I am really going to use the knowledge in my class
Loretta,
and the more we are excited about the subject, in turn the students will become even more excited about their future career choices.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I feel that every student is there to get an education, but you if it is exciting and fun when learning at the same time, I feel that the students are more motivated and excited to come to class every day.
Classroom size and number of students in each classroom is also an important element.
delmera,
you are so right that the instructor has a major impact on the overall climate or feel of the classroom. We must make sure that we are demonstrating positivity & enthusiasm as much as possible.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
