TPE 2 - Effective Environments

An effective classroom environment is one in which students are set up for success. As a teacher, it is imperative that I ensure my classroom environment allows all students to feel supported with the knowledge that class is meant for them - no matter who they are. If students feel confident and supported in my class, then they will be more likely to take on the academic challenges that will allow them to grow their knowledge. The learning process can be an intimidating one in which students take chances, struggle, and sometimes make mistakes before achieving knowledge in what they're learning. By creating an effective learning environment, I ensure that students feel safe and supported to take on these academic risks and grow as students as well as people in the process.

An effective learning environment is also one which makes use of the fact that not every student learns in the same way, or at the same pace. I design my lessons to implement UDL, and ensure that there are multiple options in how to learn. On any given day, my lessons will include opportunities for students to read, write, draw, discuss, act out, or interact with lesson content - all of which make sure that all students have an opportunity to consume curriculum content in a way that helps them best access the historical knowledge of a lesson.

Another way I maintain an effective learning environment is by creating a clear set of class guidelines, expectations, and rules at the beginning of the term. My belief is that if learning expectations are clear from the beginning of class, then students may take comfort in the predictability of routines and expectations. Nothing’s left to chance. With this in mind, I include these rules in the syllabus students receive on the first day of class, and I take time to review the rules thoroughly with students. This process typically involves me answering any questions students have about the rules. By creating clear guidelines of how class will operate throughout the year, students understand what is expected of them and are set up to succeed with a well marked path.

Ultimately, I have found that the number one way to ensure an effective learning environment, is to make sure that the classroom is a place students enjoy being in - a place they may even look forward to coming to each day. Class may be a place they feel challenged to learn and grow at times, but ultimately it will always be fun, safe, and supportive in the process. I explain to students at the beginning of a semester that the classroom is an inclusive community. Everyone belongs, and the actions of individuals whether good or bad, affect the learning experience of everyone in the community. With this knowledge, students are likely to place their best foot a forward and become a respectful, participating member of the classroom community.