The challenge of creating a space that encourages meaningful involvement in the classroom...

As a teacher, I'd think that it would be a very rewarding and satisfying thing if the learners in my class are actively involved in the learning experience and show eagerness to participate. To me this would be the ideal classroom situation, one where co-operative learning is embraced and participation is encouraged. It is in this ideal classroom that the teacher will create a space in which the involvement of the learners are meaningful. But as we all know, this is but a utopia of all teachers and the actual situation is the complete opposite. 

The reason for this is that there are so many other factors that hampers the opportunity to create a space like this, the main one being the behaviour of the learners. According to Wills this is an issue because as a result of the behaviour of the kids, activities in which meaningful involvement is facilitated, often does not take place. Logistical tasks that could be done in a matter of minutes takes up the time of these activities. 

Noise is also another issue that is an obstacle to a peaceful learning experience. A way in which to overcome these issues is to manage your pedagogy in a way that all these miscellaneous tasks are done more efficiently. Be innovative in order to change the situation so that there is more time for meaningful involvement on the part of the learners. Contemplate on what is working effectively in your classroom and what is not and distinguish between mundane tasks and those that promote creativity.

In this sense, your pedagogy as a teacher should then also undergo change. In order to adopt an Effective Pedagogy there are three steps to follow. They are namely pastoral care and learner well-being, effective teaching practices and school environment and lastly class resources. Pastoral care and learner well-being requires the teacher to be accessible, open communication, to provide solid foundation skills, showing empathy and understanding ect. Effective teaching incorporates academic, behavioural and social elements to create a positive classroom environment. Classroom resources can be used to assist learning and should therefore be understood fully.

 

In conclusion, meaningful involvement of learners in the classroom can be facilitated through effective pedagogy. By following the steps mentioned by Foley, each and every teacher will be able to create a space in which this type of involvement is possible.