MAKE CLASSROOM INVITING
Making the classroom inviting to the students will make the student want to come to class color ,music and changing seating can change the mood of the class and keep the student focus.
I believe hand made signs do make a difference. I do them periodically and the students love them. They know that I have taken the time out of my day to make them something and I always try to personalize them so that they know it was made just for them. For example, their names, grad date, etc.
I also believe that the more inviting the classroom the more likely the students are to show up. I like to use humor in my lecture. seems to keep there attention.
I do agree that changing your classroom around and having visual aids and art work more inviting for the student. On the other hand I also think that the Facilitator has to have that kind of energy also. There’s nothing worst getting into a class and have the facilitator dry, boring. I try to be as energetic as possible. It helps the student stay awake and interested.
Joan,
this is a great way to work within the boundaries that you have been given & help the students at the same time.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree that lots of visual aids makes for a wonderful environment. I am in the same situation as you in that I don't have much flexibility in changing the actual room decor to assist. So I make a special point to add color and graphics and a few animations to my powerpoint to spice it up. My students have given them good reviews.
Shron,
this is so true, what engaged you, which class was your favorite & why? Great questions to ask ourselves.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree. As instructors, we have to think about the things that took our interest in the classroom an apply it to our class room and teaching style.
Robert ,
there really are so many ways to freshen or liven things up & many of these have been proven to have a positive impact on learning.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I find changing the seating arrangements and adding colorful posters and displays gives the class a new look with cintinued interest for the students. I have not yet used any form of music in my classes, I do plan to experiment with this motivational tool in the future.
Jenny,
this is an excellent point & we have to make sure that we are not becoming bored with the environment or material either.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I believe students become quite bored when they are required to sit in the same environment each day for many hours. Whatever we can provide as newness in the learning evnironment, stimulates curiosity and anticipation.
Jane,
yes, especially with adult learners, they are going to learn the most by doing & applying the concepts.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree, my classroom has tons of visual aids and hands on activities as well as software simulations. I have noticed that more activity and less lecture leads to more effective teaching and learning. Dyana, I have used all types of music when doing activities, but find "yoga" music is very soothing and students love this when giving exams.
I enjoy a room that is full of visuals and has the ability to play music. I am certain the learners feel the same. However, it is a bit tougher as an adjunct to have the luxury of spicing things up the way I want. I usually have to unpack and pack in a hurry. I do what I can, though. I miss the days when I was full time and had a room to work with. All my students work hung the walls and it was a great place to come to.
making the classroom inviting always allows the students to relax and take the ease off of a strict environment. I hold study sessions, and often times play classical music during those sessions. Most of the students love the sound of music, and it helps them focus more in the classroom as well as makes them more productive as a whole.
sadie,
yes, how can we encourage our students to want to come to class, both through the environment & the content we are presenting.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
