Creating Effective Learning Environments

Question 1

To help insure success, how should teachers begin the school year?

Answer 1

Classroom rules can be discussed either with direct instruction or cooperatively with students.
Routines (like line-up, homework and attendance) should be clearly established so that they are streamlined to save time later.
Seating charts assist with classroom management, paper distribution, and streamline attendance.

Question 2

What is wait-time and what does it mean?

Answer 2

Wait time is a pause after a question that allows for students to think before responding. It can lead to better classroom interaction

Question 3

What are the physical elements of an effective classroom setting?

Answer 3

Seating that is flexible and based on the activity
Teacher and student “territories”
Location of things like pencil sharpener and waste basket
Wall colors, bulletin boards
Placement of smart, white or chalk boards for demonstration

Question 4

Why is a seating plan important?

Answer 4

Creates boundaries and The physical makeup of the learning environment can create moods and, in doing so, affect the interaction within the environment. Indeed, the attractiveness of a room appears to influence the happiness and energy of people working in it.

Question 5

How can student voice and active participation be encouraged?

Answer 5

Open dialogue and student participation is encouraged
A safe, informal, comfortable learning environment opens communication
Cooperative learning is social
Invite students to partake in planning

Question 6

Name listening strategies and explain how they help assure a safe learning environment?

Answer 6

One-way listening: The teacher talks and the students listen
Two-way listening: Both teachers and students talk and listen
Empathetic listening: Asking and hearing students on topics of a personal nature and/or relevant opinions.