I am a firm believer that your classroom is a space to simultaneously reflect your content area and your personality! When designing my classroom, I wanted to keep an open space to allow easy proximity for both myself and my students. Taking out as many desks as my roster would allow, I was able to create a collaborative work space for my students over the past three years. Flexible seating was a goal of mine as I repurposed some gently used computer tables and patio bistro sets. I also found colorful, cushioned "butterfly" chairs and stools at local home-good stores. When it comes to my wall color, I knew that I wanted something bright, but not overbearing. I wanted a vibrant yet neutral color that reflected the walls that adorn houses and buildings in Latin America to help bring the culture to life. I had taped about twenty paint splotches to my wall and asked my students to help me choose the perfect color until we decided on the one pictured below. The other decor pieces found around my classroom are a combination of authentic artifacts from my travels abroad, gifts from students, and hand made gifts from friends and family. When students cross the welcome mat into my classroom, my Alexa ensures that Spanish guitar or Latin Pop music plays softly in the background. In addition to speaking Spanish, the atmosphere of my classroom helps to immerse my students into a different country/culture from the moment they step foot through the doorway.
My classroom is a work in progress, but it has come a long way since the day I was given my keys. I'll never forget the rows of desks facing the front chalk board and the shelves and tables full of dust and junk that I walked into. It was such a gloomy and sterile environment and I knew it had to change. It was not inviting; it was not "me". My overall goal for my classroom has always been to not only provide an immersive atmosphere but also provide a home-like feel. Considering that we learn our first languages in very natural and familiar environments through consvesatsions held at the dinner table or while sitting on a couch with family and friends, I thought it would be helpful to replicate that kind of scenery. Some students have said that my room reminds them of a café or a dorm as it allows them to be productive, but keeps them calm. They enjoy the colors and walking around to see my pictures and souvenirs. They forget for a moment that they are in a school building. It's almost like an augmented reality, such as the one you experience as you walk through Epcot at Disney World. You know deep down that you're not really in a different country, but it's so life-like that your mind let's feel as if you are. Students who know that an inviting classroom and teacher are waiting of them, are more likely to look forward to a class, rather than dread it. A teacher's personality as well as the set-up of their room are key elements in student engagement. Students notice and appreciate authenticity. By taking pride in my classroom and my content, students are aware that this is way more than just a "job" for me. They can see my passion shine through by my words and my actions. It is my hope that my actions then inspire them to find something that they are passionate about and to pursue with their head high. |