Learning Environment

What do we mean by learning environment? 

If we take into account the basic principles of how we all learn and develop, the learning environment is going to reflect that in important ways.

If relationship is acknowledged as the foundation for a child’s development, the learning environment will be structured around a close and open relationship between teacher and child, with easy access to teachers as resource providers and guides.

If we take into account the fact that we are all natural learners, then it’s important that the teacher be there as a resource, that the environment be resource-rich, and the built environment be a safe place for exploration.

When the learning environment supports the fact that children learn in an integrated way, it will provide interdisciplinary and experiential activities, resources and assessment that support the children’s integrated personal, social and academic development.

If we acknowledge that each child learns in his or her own, individual way, the learning environment will give scope for differentiated learning and acknowledge different learning styles.

From principles to outcomes:

A learning environment in accord with the principles of how we all learn also leads to the outcomes we all want.

When the environment supports a close teacher-student relationship, the learner can gain skills in conflict-resolution, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

If the learning environment acknowledges that children are natural learners, then the outcome can be an adult with a habit of lifelong learning.

We can see how systems thinking develops if the environment supports learning in an integrated way.

Finally, when the environment supports the fact that we all work in our individual ways, and allows space for individual pursuits and inquiries, the learner has the scope to develop creativity and initiative.

The learning environment

What would this learning environment look like? It would include three components: the human environment including teacher and child, resource materials that are engaging, safe and that invite discovery, and a safe and welcoming built environment that is supportive of exploration. Click here for a one page chart on the learning environment for an education that works. 

If the learning environment is in accord with the ways we learn, we can achieve the outcomes we’re all looking for.

On this website, we can share ideas about ways to shape a learning environment that supports the principles of how we all learn and develop.