3. Learning environment:
Introduction:
Learning environments are places where people learn. They can include physical spaces such as
classrooms, schools, or workplaces; virtual spaces such as digital platforms; or blended spaces that
combine both physical and digital elements.
Learning environments should provide a safe and conducive space for learning. They should also
provide opportunities for learners to interact with each other and access resources that help them
learn in different ways
Definition:
“A learning environment is a place where learners feel comfortable, encouraged and inspired by
their surroundings”
The type of learning taking place and other variables determine the type of environment. For
example, formal studies may take place in an institution like a university or study center. Different
environments influence a student's relationships, resources, time and control over their learning.
Characteristics of Learning Environment
1. Knowledge:
Knowledge is the basis of all learning, whatever it may be. Furthermore, knowledge can be of
all kinds and include both academic and informal elements. For example, one’s own life
experiences.
2. Materials
The materials used to support the teaching-learning process also matter. By materials we mean,
activities, readings, exercises, exams, virtual classes, face-to-face classes.
3. Organization of the space
If the organization of the space is good, the learning will be as well.
For instance, the classroom should have adequate lighting and be well ventilated. Indeed, it
should be organized in such a way that interactions between students and teachers are improved.
4. Address learning styles
To teach in an ideal way, teachers should be acquainted with the profile of their students. Indeed,
it should never be forgotten that everyone learns at a different rate. Therefore, when promoting
meaningful learning, it is important to attend to the learning style of each individual student.
However, in public schools, where there are so many students in each class, this is no easy task
5. Goals:
The environment of learning should be aligned with the goals of the institution.
6. Safe Environment:
4. It should be safe, engaging, and conducive to learning. Students should feel safe and motivated by
the environment.
7. Learning opportunities:
Learning environments are places where people can gather, learn, and grow. Learning
environments are designed to provide opportunities for students to learn in a variety of ways.
8. Development of Skills:
Learning environments are also called learning spaces. Learning spaces are usually designed to
support the development of skills and knowledge in a particular area.
Effects of learning environment:
Everyone starts learning at birth through direct and indirect experiences. These situations help
change or direct behaviour over time. The environment also influences this ongoing learning
experience. Having a healthy environment to study in can help you develop a better knowledge of
what you are learning. It is important to understand what factors can hinder an individual is
learning process and how to avoid them to improve a student's performance. There are different
types of landscapes or categories that influence our learning, including our physical environment,
psychological environment, and emotional environment. Here is how these three categories can
influence a learning environment:
Physical environment:
Those vibrant, colorful classrooms of your youth or the rows of desks that characterized high
school both fall into the category of the physical learning environment. This category is all about
the design of a classroom, including how it is laid out to influence learning, and which spaces are
designated for learning activities. This can include the furniture that’s used to fill the space and
even the equipment a teacher relies on to enhance the learning experience.
In recent years, at-home and distance learning have also become a part of the physical environment
discussion. Parents have had to make adjustments at home to ensure their kids have a comfortable
space to attend class via video chat and do their classwork off-site. For many, this has meant
creating a designated space that helps students feel separate from the rest of the standard home
space so home students are encouraged to focus—and to leave school behind at the end of the day
once class is done.
Psychological environment:
A positive psychological environment can encourage students to engage with the curriculum—and
their fellow students—in ways that can enhance their personal and professional development. By
building trust with students and creating a safe space that feels welcoming for all, teachers create
a positive learning environment and make sure students have more opportunities to participate, ask
questions, take risks, and receive feedback.
Emotional Environment:
School can be stressful at any age, which is why students need a positive emotional environment
that supports their educational path. Part of creating the psychological environment’s safe space
means addressing the emotional environment’s need for self-expression and the freedom to express
emotions. By supporting student’s emotional needs and feelings, teachers help enhance their
5. students’ emotional intelligence—which, in turn, gives them confidence. Teachers can also create
a supportive emotional learning environment by creating routines students can rely on,
encouraging diversity and choices, and celebrating their achievements.
Conclusion:
Learning environments are spaces where people learn, including physical, virtual, and blended
spaces. They should provide a safe and conducive environment for learning, allowing learners to
interact and access resources. Key characteristics of a learning environment include knowledge,
materials, organization, learning styles, goals, safety, learning opportunities, and skill
development. The physical environment, psychological environment, and emotional environment
all influence a learning environment. The physical environment includes classroom design,
furniture, and equipment. The psychological environment encourages students to engage with the
curriculum and their peers, enhancing personal and professional development. The emotional
environment supports students' emotional intelligence and confidence by addressing
selfexpression, diversity, choices, and achievements. By understanding these factors, educators can
create a supportive learning environment that supports students' growth and development.
6. References
• 3 types of learning environment. (2021). wgu.
• learning Environment. (2023). Indeed.
• Learning Environments: Definitions, Types, and Characteristics. (2021). exploringyourmind.
• Williams, K. (2023). Learning Environment: Definition, types and Characteristics. study.com.