Principle #5: The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.

Artifact #1: Classroom Design Project

Description: The Classroom Design Project describes the various methods I would use to develop class rules and procedures, behavior incentive programs, seating arrangements and display areas.

Connection to standard: The classroom design project shows that I understand individual and group motivation and behavior and that I have definite ideas of how to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.

Reflection:

Students

It is necessary to create an environment that encourages positive social interaction. I would like to use as many of these methods as feasible in my classroom because the students will thrive in an atmosphere that stimulates, nourishes, and provides comfort. At the same time, the students will learn organizational, time management, and self-management skills by taking an interactive role in the classroom.

 

Teaching

By creating an environment that is both academically stimulating and aesthetically pleasing, I feel that the actual presentation of lessons, group interaction, and individual work and interaction will flow gently. It is important to display student work to show value. It is important to present organized structures for the students to learn from and practice in a safe environment. By providing rules and procedures, and developing student ownership, I feel the students will gain valuable life skills in addition to academic content.

Next Step

After creating a classroom design, the next step of course, is implementation. Realistically, I know that dynamics within the class will be based primarily upon student personalities and therefore the ideal may need to be adjusted. I plan to revisit this classroom design after the first year to tweak what really is practical and what really is ideal. I can see that again, depending on the classroom population and the diverse learning needs, that some organizational systems will be more appropriate at different times. Most of all, I do realize the need for flexibility and adaptability.

 

© 2003 McDaniel College and Stephanie Greene
McDaniel College