It is imperative for educators to create an inclusive learning environment in which every student feels safe and comfortable participating, sharing their ideas, thoughts, struggles, and learning in every area of the curriculum. Before a learning environment can be deemed positive, it must first be one that is safe.
A student who does not feel comfortable might be hesitant to participate in classroom discussions and activities, fearing their responses will be negatively addressed. Before an environment can be one where students take risks, the expectations must be understood. These expectations should be established and checked for understanding from the first day of school. Posting these expectations in the classroom is very important so that both the student and teacher can refer to them when needed. Ensuring that students understand how to effectively collaborate amongst their peers should also be included in the expectations. Students also need to understand that they are responsible for their own personal behaviour while also respecting their peer’s participation and learning environment.
Learning environments should have adequate resources and materials that support learning by enabling students to discover their own strategies for problem solving. Students need to be able to explore and utilize various materials while having opportunities to demonstrate their learning.
Space is also an important aspect of the learning environment. As educators we need to ensure the space within a classroom provides opportunities for collaboration, discussions, movement, and displaying student work. Students must also have ample personal space for times when they need to work on their own.
Actively listening to our students and involving them in creating an ideal learning environment contributes to student understanding and application of the curriculum thus creating an inclusive learning environment for all.
© Sabrina Morgan