Children & Learning Environment

-Hem Bishwakarma

Creating an optimal learning environment for children involves crafting a space that transcends the mere dissemination of knowledge. It's a profound psychological preparation that shapes a child's perception of the learning process and its outcomes. In my vision, a school isn't just an isolated institution but a fusion of home-like warmth and the structured ambience of academia.

I firmly believe in nurturing a setting where children can explore the marvels of the world within the campus. It's about providing avenues for them to delve into modern science and technology while immersing themselves in the serenity of nature. This amalgamation fosters adaptability to societal intricacies, nurturing their inner engineering to prepare for future challenges. In this context, the library emerges as a gateway to boundless exploration, offering them a vast expanse of knowledge beyond conventional means.

Central to this environment is the cultivation of strong child-adult relationships. These relationships serve as pillars bolstering a child's confidence and self-esteem, crucial elements for their holistic growth. In imparting knowledge, the emphasis is not on authoritarian imposition but rather on creating platforms that empower children to learn in a manner that resonates with their intrinsic motivations. A safe, optimistic, and compassionate milieu is essential for them to navigate their learning journey.

Creativity must flourish unhindered within every child. Hence, providing opportunities for collaborative, problem-solving, and self-directed learning is imperative. Today's children, adept at testing hypotheses using modern techniques, possess an innate curiosity that demands encouragement and support from teachers who act as guiding facilitators in their deep dives into diverse knowledge domains.

Motivation serves as a driving force in a child's learning trajectory. Creating an atmosphere where children feel intrinsically motivated to engage in significant pursuits is a cornerstone of my approach.

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My perception of a child aligns with William Wordsworth's eloquent verse, "The child is the father of a man." This adage encapsulates the idea that a child's demeanour, cultural context, and exploration methods shape the adult they will become—the architects of tomorrow's world. Education, thus, holds profound value in shaping not only the individual but also the outlook of a nation and the world.

In my view, a child is a sensitive entity, a receptacle of the knowledge woven into their surroundings. They embody the product of their contemporary society and culture, moulded by the environment, particularly their home. As reflections of society, they mirror its existing fabric.

Their inherently creative and curious nature drives an insatiable thirst for new awareness, a fervor to explore the unknown. Their unwavering curiosity fuels a relentless pursuit of knowledge, seeking to unravel the mysteries that first catch their eye.

Moreover, children possess distinct inherited capabilities and learning techniques. Acknowledging each child's unique strengths, weaknesses, desires, and learning styles is imperative for effective teaching.

They are both learners and teachers, capable of imparting wisdom to adults and peers alike through collaborative learning. A child's emotional sensitivity makes them vulnerable to external influences, necessitating a nurturing environment to foster their minds.

However, a child's perspective starkly differs from an adult's. They dwell in a realm of imagination, constantly seeking to transcend mediocrity, driven by their private thoughts rather than conforming to adult notions.

In essence, a child embodies an exclusive and rich learning capacity, characterized by remarkable elasticity. Their methods of learning vary based on the faculties they predominantly employ. A teacher's role involves recognizing these diverse methods and employing suitable techniques to engage and educate them effectively.

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Translating this profound perception of a child into the classroom requires creating an atmosphere that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. While adhering to prescribed curricula, it's imperative to foster an environment that doesn't stifle creativity. The prevailing education system, especially in Nepali society, often stifles children's creativity by focusing solely on examination scores and adhering rigidly to established principles.

Does learning environment matter for children’s development?

Learning environment plays an important role in children’s development. It can affect their mental, emotional, and social development.

What are some key factors in creating a positive learning environment for children?

Features of a good learning environment include safety, comfort, structure, participation, and adult support.

How can parents and teachers create an appropriate learning environment at home or in the classroom?

They can provide a structured schedule, set clear expectations, provide a variety of learning materials and resources, and foster a sense of curiosity and exploration among young people.

How does technology help in a child’s learning environment?

Technology can be an important tool in a child’s learning environment, but it should be used appropriately and enhance learning rather than replacing other important developmental aspects.

My endeavour is to create a fearless and conducive learning environment, encouraging children to explore their potential beyond perceived limits. Cultivating their creativity involves various strategies, such as:

• Motivation and Confidence Building: Instilling confidence in children and motivating them to accomplish tasks assigned to them is pivotal.
• Cultivation of Risk-Taking: Encouraging a risk-taking attitude fosters creativity and confidence, enabling them to explore uncharted territories fearlessly.
• Promotion of a Reading Culture: Recognizing the power of words to effect change, and fostering a love for reading ignites their imagination and knowledge acquisition.
• Facilitating Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, and Creativity: These skills form the bedrock of holistic learning and problem-solving.
• Ensuring Equal Opportunities: Providing equal opportunities for participation ensures that their needs and voices are heard and addressed.
• Nurturing Positive Attitudes: Cultivating a supportive and positive atmosphere, devoid of omniscience, fosters compassion and kindness among students.
• Adopting Varied Teaching Roles: Playing diverse teaching roles and fostering strong relationships with students enhances engagement and trust in the learning process.

Challenges persist, primarily the need to challenge and dismantle conventional educational orthodoxies. Schools must evolve to provide inclusive, quality, and modern education that aligns with the multifaceted demands of today's world. The convergence of efforts from educators, parents, and society is crucial to unlocking the full potential of children and nurturing a generation equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Bishwakarma is a TSC-recommended English Teacher for the Secondary Level.