_ELM 510_Week 2_Assignmemt_Group Learning Environments
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Mathematics
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Apr 3, 2024
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Group Learning Environments
Jarae T. Arnold
College of Education, Grand Canyon University
ELM 510: Creating and Managing Engaging Learning Environments
Mr. Brown
February 28, 2024
2
Group Learning Environments
Part 1: Classroom Design
Part 2: Group Learning Reflection
There is no surprise when it comes to designing a classroom layout. Every design will be modified to meet the individual needs of the learners in the classroom but, also being about to cater to all student learning needs. For my layout that I have designed, I focused on the kindergarten grade level. I specially targeted the content area of English Language Arts. The rationale as to why my classroom design is conducive to group learning is to the appropriate spacing, multiple table groups, and being able to accommodate students.
Based on my design, I focused on the kindergarten grade level. I thought highly about my
time I speak in the room as a paraprofessional and the overall layout. I wanted to target being
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able to accomodate at least 20 students and five more if there were to be any new comers. I wanted to ensure that students were being provided with the opportunity to learn and engage but the opportunity to collaborate with one another. When thinking about the overall organization for the classroom layout/design I thought about all content areas and the new curriculum that has been implemented this academic school year. I took into consideration the appropriate storage for all materials. I also took into consideration spacing so that students are able to walk around freely without feeling cluttered or overstimulated by a busy classroom. I ensured that I labeled designated areas such as a classroom
library, shelving, math center, computer and/or laptop station, word wall, and etc. Furthermore I implemented a designated space for whole group discussion, in this case it is a large square rug facing the smartboard.
“Students' interactions and discussions with others allow the group to construct new knowledge, place it within a conceptual framework of existing knowledge, and then refine and assess what they know and do not know” (Washington University in St. Louis, n.d.). Students should be provided with the opportunity to collaborate with their peers in a small group setting. This can also include students working together as a pair. Different learning activities can not only cater to their individual learning needs but, also allow students to learn from each other and share their own thoughts, ideas, or feelings when in relation to the topic of the content.
“Establish and maintain predictable and consistent routines so children feel comfortable and confident that they know what to do and when. Having miniature versions of photo schedules and class rules keeps expectations handy and allows teachers to reinforce routines throughout the day” (Martínez, 2018). As educators, we must always take into deep consideration that all students will come from different backgrounds in means of culture,
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socioeconomic status, languages, and etc. What is most important is having an understanding of the student and their families. From my own personal experience, meeting the families is a must. Asking questions such as languages spoken by the household can be helpful as there are some households that can speak multiple languages. A teacher should also have an understanding of how they can support the child in the classroom and a home. Effective communication with parents and/or legal guardians can assist in these areas. Communication can go a long way in means of the growth in the child and providing resources that will support them academically and behaviorally. I currently utilize a variety of engagement strategies in my current classroom and can also
contribute to my future professional practice. “Use your judgment and knowledge of who works well together when organizing group work. Engineering the groups might avoid troublesome partnerships, while allowing students to work with friends might generate the buzz you need for more productive activity” (Best, 2020). When I think of engagement strategies I think of “think-
pair-share”, “thumbs up, thumbs down”, and etc. I love to allow my students to engage consistently throughout the learning process to ensure that they are comprehending what is being
taught to them. It is also an indication of what I can modify to meet their needs and allow them to enjoy the learning process.
References
Best, J (2020). 20 Student Engagement Strategies for a Captivating Classroom. 3P Learning. https://www.3plearning.com/blog/20-student-engagement-strategies-captivating-
classroom/
Martínez, C (2018). Embracing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity in Your Classroom. Teaching Strategies. https://teachingstrategies.com/blog/10-tips-language-cultural-diversity-
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classroom/
Washington University in St. Louis (n.d.). Benefits of Group Work. Washington University in St. Louis Center for Teaching and Learning. https://ctl.wustl.edu/resources/benefits-of-
group-work/