Domain 2: Learning Environment

A learning environment is more than just a classroom; it is a place where students feel safe and supported in their quest for knowledge and are inspired by their surroundings. In my first month of internship, I was assigned to VFES, a virtual class only. The online learning environment required me to adapt to the new educational setup implemented by VFES. It was a different learning environment than I was used to in the pre-pandemic era. There is a challenge in adapting to the new educational environment because we need to prepare ourselves with skills and knowledge on how to teach effectively in an online setting. In addition, because this is an online class, we teachers must be computer literate. How students behave and absorb knowledge in an online environment differs significantly from how students behave and engage in learning in a face-to-face class. I completed the second month of my on-the job training at Baybay II Central School, which implemented a face-to-face setup. I can say that the learning environment is different from a virtual environment, but they have the same goals. In face-to-face learning environments, students can interact with other students and teachers. The learning process should have face-to-face interaction with teachers and students, especially in discussion and answering assessments. When I was in Baybay II Central School, where I had been assigned as an intern, I noticed the different learning environments in each classroom. Each of them has had a classroom design that captures my attention and, of course, the students' too; a pleasurable and comfortable design that students will enjoy.

As teachers, we also need to prioritize the safety of our students in that environment and guarantee that fair learning is emphasized. In my experience as a teacher, I established classroom rules and regulations to ensure my students were in a safe environment, felt at ease in the surroundings, and got something out of the learning environment. I also encouraged them to do well in class, gave them awards for their achievements, and engaged them in learning. I equally recognize their activity and group activities' performances, which makes them smile. Managing the classroom is not easy, but because of my determination, I organized the classroom and the activities well. The learning environment must also be respectful and respect the student as well as the teacher.

I believe that establishing rapport with students is the most effective way to maintain a significant and comfortable learning environment. We must respect our students and provide a safe learning environment because we do not know them. When called upon to recite or respond, students should not feel rushed. We must create a respectful but subtle environment for them not to feel threatened by us or the lesson. We must foster an environment where mistakes made by students are corrected rather than judged. As a teacher, I will create an environment that ensures safety, no harm, a comfortable environment for them to learn, and a fair learning environment in which all the students are recognized equally and learn equally.

19