Shaping Engaging Environments for Student Mastery
I magine teaching as a hologram—a three-dimensional representation where every action and detail reflects the entirety of our pedagogical values. University Professor Andrew Pollard describes pedagogy as the “science, craft and art of teaching.” Science suggests there is a body of knowledge wrapped around it. Art suggests that we can be creative, flexible and expressive in how we implement it. Craft implies that we use techniques and strategies to enact it. Pedagogy offers us the opportunity to be highly effective and creative.
The Hologram of Pedagogy:
Carla Rinaldi, CEO of Reggio Children, offers a metaphor, likening pedagogy to a hologram where each part encapsulates the whole. This is a guiding lens to explore how our teaching values are mirrored in every action and detail from the moment we open the door. The hologram reflects our image of children, educators, families and communities.
Understanding the Significance:
Pedagogy is especially significant in the early years when we consider the critical development phase marked by heightened brain receptivity and the formation of the neural circuits that shape cognitive, social and emotional development. Acknowledging and encouraging students’ voices during this period lays the foundation for a positive self-image and a sense of agency. The impact of experience on the brain is not limited to the early years and is worthy of consideration at all stages of education.
Creating a Welcoming Learning Environment:
One powerful way to externalise pedagogical values is through the intentional arrangement of the learning environment, creating a space that is relevant, engaging, interesting and fun. According to Carlina Rinaldi, the physical space serves as a language—a non-verbal communicator conditioning students’ learning experiences. By consciously designing a space that reflects equality and responsibility, educators create an environment that speaks to students on a subliminal level.
Elements to Consider when we Arrange the Environment:
Sense of Belonging:
A welcoming environment fosters a sense of belonging, making students feel comfortable and included. How does the space respond to children’s needs, interests and culture ensuring that every student feels they belong? This sensibility extends to children’s families and backgrounds, so good communication with families is essential.
Aesthetically Pleasing:
An aesthetically pleasing environment positively influences the mood and motivation of students. How does the space make learning interesting and fun, creating a positive atmosphere? Are the colours, textures, sounds and spaces inviting? Are we providing materials and equipment with purpose and arranged in a way that children are motivated to learn from them?
Organisation of Routines and Materials:
The organisation contributes to a smooth and efficient learning experience. How are routines and materials organised to create a structured yet flexible environment? Good organisation converts chaos into calm.
Active Engagement:
Active engagement is crucial for effective learning. How do the experiences within the environment involve and captivate students, fostering their curiosity and motivation to explore material and ideas? I once provided children with a camping experience. I provided a tent and other accoutrements, but there wasn’t enough for the children to do. The campsite failed until I provided some bricks, sticks and coloured cellophane to represent a campfire. Cooking utensils and storybooks fuelled children’s desire to spend time in and around the tent.
Autonomy and Navigation:
Autonomy is essential for a student’s development. How does the environment allow students to navigate independently, fostering a sense of acknowledgement and responsibility for their learning? Do they know where they can find their favourite toys and construction sets? On a visit to an early learning classroom recently I saw a child following an educator around the room. She was busily tidying up after lunch. He kept on tapping her on the back asking, “Can I play with the bee game?” Neither the child nor the educator could focus. If the child had independent access to the game, he would have been happily involved not wasting precious play and learning time.
Balancing Free Play and Guided Learning:
A balanced environment caters to both free exploration and structured learning. How are areas designated for free play and guided learning, providing a positive mindset for diverse learning experiences?
Progressive Learning Experiences:
A dynamic environment supports progressive learning. How does the learning within the environment expand and build in complexity over time?
Sense of Harmony:
Harmony in the environment contributes to a positive and peaceful atmosphere. How does the arrangement create a harmonious space, ensuring that students feel acknowledged and connected to their surroundings?
Elevating Educator Well-being:
The satisfaction of educators serves as a pivotal gauge for the efficacy of the learning environment. To what extent does the carefully curated learning space influence their relationships and engagements with students? Are educators cognisant and appreciative of their role in shaping the success and life trajectories of their students?
In a hologram of pedagogy, every detail and action contributes to the whole, moulding future citizens. By conscientiously shaping learning environments and asking these vital questions, educators can ensure that the hologram of pedagogy reflects values, engages students and creates a space where education becomes a truly transformative experience.