Positive Learning Environment
Based on
Seven Keys to a Positive Learning Environment in Your Classroom
By Tom Hierck
Observations and Reflections on the Creation of a Positive Learning Environment
To create a positive learning environment, the prerequisite of a positive learning culture is necessary to build structure and educate successful students. An example of a positive learning culture in the classroom is to value all students’ right to learn by showing trust, belief, and high expectations for each student in the classroom. The positive culture cultivated makes it easier to create classroom expectations and to effectively instruct learning objectives.
Classroom Expectations
At the beginning of the year, it is important to co-create a set of classroom expectations with the students. The expectations are then posted on the wall after being signed by all students and educators in the classroom. The final product is a list of positively-state affirmations about expected conduct throughout the school. This sets the tone for a positive learning environment throughout the year.
However, it is not enough to post the classroom expectations on the wall. Teachers must model these expectations throughout the year with the students. If there are social disruptions in the classroom, having a list of classroom expectations makes it clear that concerns will be addressed. Teachers must then take the time to discuss issues in a constructive method while modeling how to have difficult conversations. Modeling continues to reinforce the positive tone.
When we model positive behavior as teachers, it aligns beliefs with practice. Examples include focusing on learning goals instead of reprimanding, encouraging effort instead of ranking students, and teaching multiple strategies to encourage mastery-oriented understanding of content instead of pushing a one-size-fits-all mentality. These practices encourage students to work hard and to buy into the classroom culture of learning first.
An additional necessity for setting classroom expectations is to establish routines. One clear example is to consistently display and follow weekly classroom schedules. Weekly schedules should be thoughtfully designed to follow long-term unit goals. Each lesson should engage students in the learning objectives. Students are comforted by routine because the process establishes immediate comfort through familiarity.
Effective Instruction
For effective instruction, Maslow’s Hierarchy must be addressed before Bloom’s Taxonomy; students’ basic needs should be met before they can learn in a classroom. A positive and welcome learning environment can help meet basic needs by showing care and concern for students’ wellbeing.
Another effective instructional foundation is to learn the dreams, needs, and abilities of students in an authentic manner. Students are individuals who need to be heard before we can teach them. If students understand that we want to know them as individuals and not just data points, they begin to understand that we are invested in their long-term health and educational future. When students know teachers are invested, they begin to invest too.
Final Thoughts
A classroom should be a comfortable, safe space for all students. Building a positive learning environment is the most important prerequisite before teachers can begin to effectively instruct their students.