Creating a productive learning environment is essential for any and every classroom. Without a safe and inviting atmosphere, students will not be productive socially, emotionally, or educationally.
I frequently think about my first day of classes with my new students. I can see myself giving them the once-over on what they can expect in the class, my expectations of them as far as education and behavior, and explaining the classroom setup. Skipping these procedures within the first few days is a vital error because it can lead to ignorance, misunderstandings, and laziness from the students.
I've never pictured myself as the type of teacher who insisted that the classroom be a place of lecture where students are to be seen and not heard. I feel that I will encourage a healthy amount of sharing one's opinions and ideas with the class, encourage questions from all (after all, there are no dumb questions), and will not be stuck on the idea of raising hands before speaking as long as respect towards others is shown in conversation.
My perfect classroom includes:
A large room with 1 window
Chairs and desks in a semi-circular pattern around the whiteboard/smartboard
Sound eliminating/minimizing materials (curtains, carpeted floors, etc)
A 'technology corner' with computers and ipads
A 'chill pill corner' with magazines, flowers, small aquarium with fish, and a bean bag
A 'book corner' with a bookcase full of books of all genres and reading levels, complete with a reading mat and pillows
I like your emphasis on collaboration and inquiry and creating a comfortable environment for your students.
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