Topic > Creating a Thriving Learning Environment - 916

Creating a learning environment that maximizes learning and teaching in any classroom can be a task in itself, let alone creating a successful learning environment all within an inclusive educational context. However, there are numerous ways to do this, with advantages and difficulties in implementing such a curriculum; it seems like an overwhelming experience, especially as a new teacher. Foreman (2008) compares the school environment to an ecosystem in which four interconnected dynamics exist; teacher factors, student factors, curriculum and resource factors, and physical environment factors. These four factors provide many ways in which teachers can set up the learning environment to maximize the event of teaching and learning, however it is my belief and experience that there is a greater focus on teacher factors. I believe the reason for this is that it is the teacher himself who implements and practices inclusive education. It's not that I consider any one of these factors more important than another; but I have recently witnessed firsthand how important relational factors are to creating and continuing to create successful learning and teaching environments that satisfy all students. Dynamic relationships are critical to providing a thriving classroom (Greenspan, 2005). This is supported by Frieberg's Coherence Management and Cooperative Discipline model (Ashman & Elkins, 2008) which suggests that classrooms should be built on support and trust, as these are the foundations that facilitate and nurture relationships between teachers, families , students, colleagues, stakeholders. and the community. However, problems can arise in many aspects of the school environment if relationships are not formed and nurtured, such as the lack… middle of paper… towards being a new teacher, embracing new ways to enhance the experience of learning of all students. I will be using Clicker 5 and FM stereo as well as interactive whiteboards during my internship to maximize learning experiences for all of my students. Works Cited Ashman, A., & Elkins, J. (Eds.). (2008). Education for inclusion and diversity. Frenchs Forest, New South Wales: Pearson Education Australia.Causton-Theoharis, C., & Theoharis, G. (2008). Create inclusive schools for all students. The School Administrator, 65, 24 - 31.Foreman, P. (ed.). (2008). Inclusion in action. South Melbourne, Victoria: Cengage Learning Australia.Greenspan, S.I. (2005). Create an inclusive classroom. Early childhood education today, 20(1), 26.Kennedy, G. (2002). Educational software for school and home. Australian Journal of Learning Difficulties, 7(1), 46 - 47.