As a first year university student, I have not given a lot of thought to what kind of classroom I would like to teach in. I can honestly say that I am not even completely sure that I want to teach at times. I am not a fan of how much work being a teacher will be, but every time I enter the classroom I fall back in love with the idea of becoming a teacher. So at the end of each day I keep my eyes on the goal of becoming a teacher.
Throughout my first semester I have been introduced to many great ideas for classrooms. I do know that I am a big fan of quotes and posters on the wall to make it more homier for the students. I also want my students work to be shown within the classroom. I want my students to feel comfortable and safe within my classroom so that their learning will be optimized. Some ways that I believe I can make my students feel safe is by making sure there are windows so they can receive fresh air and sunlight throughout the day. I also believe that peer learning and discussions are important. To do this I would place their desks in groups or have tables in which they can sit around. I want my students to be able to bounce ideas off of each other and reflect about all lessons taught. I believe that by telling a story and relating the material to the students and having them discuss the material, it will optimize their learning.
One thing I would like to try in a high school setting is to have a class pet. I want to see if a class pet will bring students closer together and if it will make more students want to come to school.
I would like to start off each of my classes by telling a joke or a story, and get the students minds thinking. The joke or story should be something that the students can relate to, as well as relating to the class material of the day. I believe if students hear a meaningful story they can relate to, they will be able to remember what was taught in the class better.
Having a class blog/website is definitely something I want to do. This way students will have an updated list of homework they need to do, and have contact with me at all times. Students will also be able to learn from each other. The blog will also have all the class material posted on it. I want the blog to also be something fun for them to use.
I do not have much experience with a smart board, but I am positive it will be something I will use in my future classroom.
For a final statement, I want my classroom to be a fun and memorable experience. I believe in order for that to happen I need to have my students constantly interact with each other and me, and learn by doing. If they are part of the learning, they will learn more effectively. Obviously the last thing I want to do is have a classroom in which I lecture. I want to introduce an idea they can relate to and guide my students while discussing the idea. I want a classroom in which my students feel comfortable asking questions and discussing new ideas. I want them to be able to reflect and learn, and enjoy it.
Uploaded on December 12, 2007 by Willowpoppy http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2085/2108050388_f734d089d0.jpg?v=0
This is a picture of an elementary classroom. I love the organized mess of it. When I am in a classroom like this I feel at home, and warm and fuzzy inside. I am hoping that by having a room, kind of like this, it will also make my students feel at home.
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