Creating an environment for learning

The environment in which learning is to take place is likely to have an effect on that learning. Environment is more than just the physical or material environment. In the broader context, the learning environment is affected by the climate of the society (Nightingale & O’Neil, 1994). The climate of the society refers to what is written and said about higher education, individual institutions, the people who work in those institutions and the students themselves. Constantly hearing negative comments does not serve to encourage students to strive for success nor encourage their teachers to provide a positive learning environment.

Knowles (1990) draws attention to the learning environment at an organisational level. The factors that make up the organisational environment include the policy framework, management philosophy, financial policy, reward system (a topic addressed in an earlier edition of ITL) and organisational structure related to functional rather then hierarchical structures. Although Knowles writes from the perspective of adult learners and human resource development programs in organisations, this can be easily translated to the environment in which teaching and learning occurs in the university, faculties and departments. By considering these factors a university can establish and promote a climate in which teaching is valued. Equally important is that this message be conveyed to the students in the classroom.

At the classroom level, teachers can have a major influence on the human and interpersonal aspects that lead to the creation of a positive learning environment. The teacher can work with the students to establish an environment that is safe, respectful, active, engaging, enthusiastic, friendly, fun, recognises and supports diversity and is barrier free.

As we strive to provide a learning environment that is supportive of learning and appropriate for the activities involved, we must consider the societal, organisational, human and interpersonal, and physical aspects of the environment.

• Knowles, M. (1990). The adult learner: A neglected species (4th ed.). Houston: Gulf Publishing.
• Nightingale, P., & O’Neil, M. (1994). Achieving quality learning in higher education. London: Kogan Page.