Which type of learning environment is conducive to learning? How can teachers and students help one another to create an inspiring learning environment? We can oftentimes hear students’ comments in a learning environment which gives inspirations for them to learn, like: ‘ I like being always present in class”, “ She explained the poem very clearly and creatively, now I understand it better.” “ Formerly, I am so lazy to report in class”, “ I did not expect to like this subject.”
The learning environment is the place where teaching and learning can take place in the most effective and productive way. It consists of the classroom and all the instructional materials and the non-threatening classroom climate needed in teaching-learning situations. Classes should be always orderly, the behavior of students organized. Absences and tardiness are always addressed accordingly and student performance are carefully scrutinized and graded. The furniture,display shelves for safekeeping of projects and laboratory works, art works, bulletin boards, announcements, posters, illustrations, white board, globes, maps and charts, cabinets, simple tools and other equipments must be organized, since they add to a room which is conducive to learning.
As soon as the students enter the classroom, they are attracted by a clean and orderly set-up. One or two frames, natural light and fresh air add to learner’s comfort. Not to be forgotten is the clear and enthusiastic voice of the teacher that resulted to eager and keen responses from the students. Interestingly, some of the great teachers, do a lot of lecturing, others very little. Some are strict and demanding, others lenient and accepting. Some appear to be warm ,others to be distant. Apparently, there is no one way to inspire students in the classroom to do their best. We can realize that a teacher decides which classroom procedure will urge students to take part effectively in class activities. Several classroom routines or activities could take place simultaneously and efficiently during the school days through effective procedures. This is a sure way to tell students how things are being done in the classroom, in the same way that disciplinary issues are addressed.
After establishing systems and procedures, a teacher need not change his or her teaching personality or follow any standard model. Rather, they can be creative in their own style of teaching to inspire learners. She must remember that he or she is the authority in the classroom, so he or she has all the right to be creative, efficient and effective to yield highly inspired students.
By: RONALDO A. PUNLA | Teacher I | Magsaysay National High School | Dinalupihan, Bataan
