Research has shown that an engaged learning environment increases students’ attention and focus, promotes meaningful learning experiences, encourages higher levels of student performance, and motivates students to practice higher-level critical thinking skills. At The School in Rose Valley, we use a student-centered approach to teaching that helps create an engaged learning environment through active learning (having students participate in class rather than just sitting and listening quietly) and using class time for inquiry, application and assessment in order to best meet the needs of individual learners.
What are the Benefits of an Engaged Learning Environment?
An engaged learning environment:
- Increases student interaction with peers and teachers
- Provides students with frequent feedback
- Requires increased time, effort, and investment for tasks
- Offers students the opportunity to apply their learning in other situations
- Gives the opportunity to experience diversity
What Makes an Engaged Learning Environment?
The two main components of engaged learning are student motivation and active learning. Motivation is dependant on a student’s value for learning and their expectations of being successful in learning. If a student is confident they can succeed and value gaining information, they will be highly motivated. Students who are interested in seeking information and gaining understanding will naturally engage if they have positive learning experiences and influence over the learning environment.
Active learning does not refer to physical movement, but rather to a student’s mind being actively engaged in the learning process. Students are dynamic participants in their learning and are provided opportunities to connect prior learning to new discoveries, resulting in deeper connections that make it more likely they will understand and retain the knowledge. Modern teaching methods – which rely heavily on lectures and PowerPoint presentations – often turn students into passive receivers of knowledge rather than active participants in learning.
In an engaged learning environment, classrooms become communities wherein learning happens. This sense of community allows students to feel connected to one another and their teachers and to engage in collaborative, active learning. Students don’t just learn through logical thinking, but get to explore learning in a way that engages their relevant feelings and interests. It also allows for more individualized learning, with each student being working at a developmentally appropriate pace.
To find out more about The School in Rose Valley, our unique approach to learning, and the programs we offer, call us today at (610) 566-1088 or fill out our inquiry form.
