Transformed Learning Space- Part 2

Last week, our class had a special visitor from the Education Centre, Mrs. Monahan, who came to help us further transform our learning space.  She stressed the importance of STUDENT VOICE, STUDENT CHOICE. Students need to have input into their learning environment and then, have choice within the classroom to choose to work in spaces that best suit their learning style.

Students were given the opportunity to voice what they currently like about our classroom and any concerns that they have/things they would change. Students then worked in groups to make a list of their top 5 spaces/furniture that they would like included in our learning space. Mrs. Monahan stressed that SAFETY and  LEARNING  must always be considered when creating their lists. Based on this information, she guided them to come up with a list that would be acceptable to both teachers and students. Emphasis was placed on the idea that we are a community of learners so everyone's voice matters. Their final list included:

• a private place to put their individual belongings (binders, pencils etc)
• exercise balls as a seating choice
• a space in the room with appropriate equipment that is dedicated to movement breaks
• calm, natural environment that brings nature into the classroom (plants, lighting, wood)

Students then had the opportunity to create maps of the classroom incorporating these ideas, as well as existing learning spaces.

Going through this process with the Grade 5 students was insightful to us as teachers. Students were engaged, providing many thoughtful, creative ideas and we are currently working to implement their priorities into our classroom environment. We hope that you will have the opportunity to visit our classroom on Meet the Teacher Night, Sept. 29.
LS and NK