As a teacher, there’s nothing more important than creating an environment in your classroom that encourages learning and engagement. Research has shown that the physical space of your classroom—from the placement of desks to the choices you make about lighting, decorations, supplies and seating arrangements—all have a significant impact on student behaviour and performance.
Therefore, it is essential for teachers today to evaluate their classrooms carefully and ensure that they are supporting positive development whenever possible.
In this blog post, we’ll look at why the classroom environment is so important, discuss how teachers can create better learning environments for their students, and explore how schools can help support such efforts.
Classroom Layout
The physical environment of your classroom can have a significant impact on student learning and behaviour. Arranging desks in an open space can lead to an atmosphere of collaboration and communication, encouraging students to interact with one another and strengthen their understanding of the topic at hand.
On the other hand, organising seating more traditionally into rows or small groups can create a sense of order and structure that is beneficial for more directed classes.
Additionally, the physical characteristics of your classroom – like its cleanliness, lighting, temperature and layout – are just as crucial as its layout. As instructors, we are responsible for recognising these elements’ impacts on our students’ understanding and adjusting accordingly.
Organisation
An organised and well-kept classroom can create a more positive learning atmosphere. The classroom should be set up comfortably, allowing students to focus on the task without distractions. This includes appropriate lighting, comfortable seating, a clean workspace, and plenty of room for movement.
When desks are all organised correctly, and materials are where they should be, it also shows that the teacher is attentive to every detail, which can lead to trust from the students.
Lastly, being neat also helps boost morale, as there is a definite feeling of accomplishment when everything is in order and nothing is out of place!
A well-maintained classroom equates to happier students and better learning outcomes.
Space
As a teacher, ensuring your students are comfortable and have enough space to move around is essential to providing a practical learning experience. Allowing students to stand or walk around the classroom can help them become physically engaged in the lesson, leading to an increased understanding of the material and better retention over time.
Having students spend each class in their seats can be limiting and could lead to restlessness or a decrease in focus.
Whenever you have the ability, give your students room to roam, as they will benefit from being able to be active while they learn!
A Place Children Feel Safe
The classroom should be a safe space for children to explore, take risks, and make mistakes without fear of judgment or ridicule. This means creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions.
Establishing rules with your class at the beginning of the year helps set expectations for behaviour and creates a culture of respect among students.
Additionally, providing a space for students to take breaks and relax as needed throughout the day can help alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety that might otherwise interfere with their learning.
Lighting
Poor lighting can be a significant distraction in the classroom. It can make it difficult for students to read and follow teachers’ instructions, or worse yet, cause them to feel uncomfortable and fidgety throughout their lessons.
But there’s also a danger of too much light in the classroom – it can create glare on whiteboards and screens, which makes them hard to see from far away or make it difficult for students to concentrate if spilt out into their eyes with the wrong angles.
The key is finding balance – too little light creates an oppressive feeling, yet too much light can be counterproductive and create distractions.
Ensure your classrooms are lit up properly for teaching so that you and your students can stay engaged!
Plants
Bringing natural elements into your classroom is one of the best ways to improve morale and energise your students! A little greenery can help create a peaceful atmosphere and provide a calming effect.
Not only will plants give off an aesthetically pleasing vibe, but they can also help purify the air, leading to better student concentration.
A few potted plants at the front of the room make an excellent decor addition while inspiring a connection between classrooms and nature.
From teaching classes outside to adorning your walls with simple posters or even just keeping watering cans in sight, any effort made towards incorporating nature into your classroom is sure to be noticed by students and staff alike.
Classroom Displays
Creating a visually engaging classroom display can be an effective way to bring concepts to life and help students gain an understanding of the material. Interesting displays create a stimulating learning environment and motivate students and allow them to reflect on the subject matter.
When designing and creating classroom displays, it is essential to remember the main message and ensure any visuals present are relevant to that message.
There are so many creative ways to use displays to reach your students; this teaching website will provide helpful strategies and tips on achieving success in your teaching.
All these factors impact student learning, including your classroom’s physical environment, environment, classroom organisation, lighting, and the addition of plants or other natural elements.
Keep these things in mind when setting up your classroom for the new school year to create a conducive learning space and boost students’ morale. What other ways do you ensure your classroom is set up for success?
It is just as important for schools to create a positive working environment for teachers! Check out our article for more information!
FAQ
Q: What are some tips for creating a conducive learning environment in the classroom?
A: Establishing clear rules and expectations with your class, providing adequate lighting, incorporating plants or other natural elements into the classroom, and creating visually engaging displays are all great ways to create a conducive learning environment in your classroom.
Additionally, fostering an atmosphere of openness and respect between teachers and students can create a thriving learning environment.
Q: How can I ensure my classroom is organised for optimal learning?
A: Keeping your classroom well-organised is essential for creating a valuable learning space. Ensure enough room for students to work comfortably, plenty of seating options, and enough storage spaces to keep materials organised.
Additionally, utilising classroom walls to display content, such as posters or visuals, can be a great way to organise your classroom visually.
