Some reflections....

Aspects of Learning Environment
Reading this article brings back memories on my encounter with one of my form classes two years ago. I had a class that was uncooperative and talkative. Almost every teacher complained about them being lazy and not focused, the classroom being dirty and the noticeboard being empty and so forth. I tried all ways to change them but to no avail. I decided to try and change their learning spaces and I experimented with a different classroom arrangement. I was apprehensive at first because I was worried that my colleagues would be unhappy with me for differing from the traditional classroom seating arrangement. However I went ahead with it and arranged the class in a U-shaped seating arrangement whereby there is close proximity between the teacher and the students. I also put up a talking forum on the class noticeboard in which the class can pen down their thoughts on anything they want to discuss. In addition, I tried to create a more conducive learning environment for the class with more colorful decorations on their noticeboard. It seemed to work though there were some objections from the class at first. I guessed I was also fortunate enough to garner the support from my fellow colleagues teaching the same class. I was glad that the class actually grew closer and they were eventually more cooperative, less talkative ( probably due to the seating arrangement where everyone can see who is talking) and focused than before.
When I looked back, I realised that the physical surroundings do play an important role in shaping the learning environment. However, it is not the only aspect. There are also other factors to consider as well.