Creating an Innovative and Conducive Classroom Environment
Dec 13, 2015
Structuring the Physical Environment Desk arrangements Student placement Classroom decoration Music in the classroom
The modification of the learning environment Consult widely with the staff, students, our community
and the architects Research the spaces necessary for effective learning
including:
- comfort
- furnishings
- color
- storage of resources including digital technology
- collaborative work
- self motivation/responsibility social interactions
Desk Arrangement
Desks in groups, with students facing each other, can help stimulate student discussion
Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/
Desk Arrangement
Desks in single or double rows are good for demonstrations and independent work
Source: http://www.babble.com
Desk Arrangement
Desks in workstations are suited for students who have developed self management skills
Source: http://www.thevillageschool.com
Desk Arrangement
Remember, all seating arrangements should accommodate an inclusive learning environment
Foreman (1996) notes that some classrooms may require free and quiet spaces to facilitate learning
Student Placement
Place easily distracted students away from each other, doorways, windows and areas of high traffic
Preferably, place to one side of the classroom, close to the front
An inclusive classroom should place students in areas of the class best suited to their needs
Classroom Decoration
Students like to see their own work displayed, even in High Schools
Class-made posters help students develop a sense of belonging to the classroom
Plants and animals can have positive effects on the classroom (Nicholls, 2006)
Music in the Classroom
Music can be a great addition to any classroom– Use as reward– Create positive mood– Helps broaden musical experiences
In inclusive classroom music can:– Comfort/calm and help focus (some
students)
Remember, it is important to Designing with the children in mind. Visiting other schools to see other teachers
and environments in action is important. Design spaces around how it may be used
for example, not putting a passive area next to an active area, considering noise pollution, etc.
Not assuming that architects are educators.