How to Create a Positive Learning Environment

This video shares some simple advice and tips from experienced CALP staff on creating a great learning environment.

Creating a Warm Environment

Never underestimate the power of creating a warm, welcoming environment for your learners. Remember, most of the learners you will work with may not feel comfortable in a traditional school system. The idea of even stepping through your door may feel extremely intimidating for some. There is no better way to instantly change the perception of what it means to be an adult learner than by making your environment feel like you’re hanging out at a local cafe or reading in your favourite old chair. Here are some inexpensive tips and tricks that can help you create a great learning environment for your CALP:

1. The Power of First Impressions

The first time a learner walks through the door, you want them to have the best first impression possible:

Have an inviting welcome sign on your door (Check out these Welcome Sign Ideas)
Make sure the environment is welcoming. Having yourself or your staff in their own cubicles with their backs turned to the door seems uninviting. An open space where a learner can be greeted and welcomed can have a great impact. Remember to also have a space that will allow you to have private conversations with learners when needed.
Have plants around your office.
Make sure the office is clean.
Ask a local photography club to take pictures of some of your learners in their classes, but be sure to ask permission beforehand. Use the photos as art in your entrance. Learners love walking in and recognizing their peers.

welcoming environment photo wall

Vegreville Lloydminster

2. Make Learners Feel at Home

Learners will be tackling hard tasks that can seem overwhelming. Paying attention to the little things will make a big difference to their learning experience.
Have coffee and tea available.
Painting your walls is a low cost, easy way to impact a space (be sure to get permission first, if necessary). Click Here for some creative paint combinations to choose from.
Purchase inspirational vinyl quotes to add to walls. You can purchase these at most local Wal Marts or you can order them online at Amazon.ca and elsewhere.
Use your local art club to display artwork in your office, or create your own low budget gallery.
Create a nook. Post on your local Facebook Buy and Sell that you are looking for a free arm chair or small couch, and create a spot for learners to sit down and read, study or have conversations with tutors.

coffee area Wall Art

Providing Tools & Technology

Many learners may not have access to technology or tools that they need in order to complete their learning. Here are some things you may want to provide in order to have a well-equipped learning space:

Internet access
Computer(s)
Quiet exam room for distance learners
Exam monitoring
Scanner
Copier

computer station quiet room

Recognizing Learner Achievement

Never underestimate the power of celebrating small successes - they may be really big successes to the learner. PALS in Edmonton has found that learners are more engaged when they celebrate small successes and large successes. PALS prints off certificates, recognizing the hard work of learners, and has them signed by several staff members before presenting them to the learners.

Certificate of Achievement

The Power of a Dress Code

Another important aspect in connecting with learners is to pay attention to the type of clothing you are wearing. If you wear a business style outfit this may intimidate some learners. For example, PALS has a "street clothes" dress code so learners feel welcome and comfortable from the first moment they meet you. If there's a noticeable visible difference between the learners and the tutors and staff, consider that this could be a mental or emotional barrier for some learners. Find the balance between comfortable, but still presentable.