Surely, we can all relate to sitting in a class, trying our best not to nod off, whilst listening to a teacher who has little to no ability to engage their students. As adults we can overcome this through self-motivation or a genuine interest in the subject.
However, for younger students a high degree of self-motivation is unlikely, so it’s up to you, to create an environment that will engage and motivate your students.
Why Bother Creating a Positive Learning Environment
allows students to feel comfortable, safe and engaged. With the focus placed on positive aspects of learning, your students will be more open to actively participating in class. This should be a primary goal for all teachers, since lack of motivation is often the root of disciplinary issues.
What is a positive classroom environment?
A number of factors contribute to a positive learning environment for your students. Here are some of the most important ones:
Establish Core Ideals
Each teacher has different standards and values in the classroom, it is important that they remain consistent. That way students know what to expect and what is expected of them and that it is an inclusive, respectful, friendly, learning-centred environment.
Create the Right Ambience
The most important and the most fun part of creating a positive learning environment that is dynamic and engaging. So have fun, but keep your displays related to both your particular students and to the topic being taught. Keeping it topic related isn’t too difficult, but keeping it related to your students requires that you know a bit about them.
Another aspect of ambience in the classroom is how it is physically set up. Try rearranging the desks in a circle, groups or pairs, not in rows. This is much more conducive to open engagement and an inclusive ambience.
Let your expectations be known
Let your expectations for student behaviour be known early on to your students, remember to keep them consistent, this helps to avoid many classroom management issues.
Laying down the ground rules early is essential to your success as a teacher. Involve your students in this to be sure that they are aware of the rules and any consequences. Remember to reinforce positive behaviour, rather than negative.
In summary, by putting together a classroom with the above ideas in mind, you will create an environment your students can thrive in. They will feel involved and responsible for their own learning as well as being comfortable enough to actively participate in individual and group activities. Your positive re-enforcement will allow them to build self-esteem and be more successful students, which of course, makes you a successful teacher!
