Creating and Sustaining Optimal Learning Environments: Finding Your True “Teacher Self”
What makes a learning environment optimal? Is it the lesson plan, the materials, or is it your “teacher self?” In this workshop, you will explore components that affect classroom atmosphere and learner engagement. These components include: teacher language, transitions, instructions, feedback, questioning strategies, and teacher presence. You’ll also explore how drawing on and affirming learners’ assets positively impacts learning. Through demonstrations, video observation, and hands-on practice, you’ll discover your true teacher-self that leads to an optimal learning environment. This workshop is suitable for teachers in any English language teaching context.
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to: 1) observe for and evaluate the effects that teacher language, teacher-learner interactions, teacher presence, and classroom environment have on learning. 2) reflect on your strengths and areas for growth. 3) discover your true teacher self that leads to the most optimal environment for all learners.
