#21stedchat Archive
Our mission for our 21st century chat is to create a positive 21st century learning environment for our students by sharing resources and ideas that has worked in our classrooms. Join us every Sunday from 8:00-9:00 PM (EST) on Twitter using the hashtag #21stedchat. All are welcome!
Sunday March 6, 2016
Welcome to tonight’s topic is: Classroom Design and Student Attention. and I will be your hosts. intro yourselves.
Bill from Charlotte. HS Physed facilitator. Eager to learn, ready for change.
Hello Everyone! I’m Jill a Personalized Learning Director from NC and co-host of
Nathan and I shape rooms to people
Sally Taylor from Grove City College. I am a pre-service teacher trying to broaden my PLN.
Hi, consultant and author living in SC. Happy to be here.
We will be using the Q & A format to drive the conversation.
Lynell Powell Professional Learning Specialist Virginia Beach.
Hi, Rachelle, Spanish teacher from Pittsburgh.
BTW I am Dave from MI a HS Science Teacher and Jill's co-host.
Brad, on sabbatical in Bangkok.
Q1: Do you feel your classroom is designed for maximum student attention? Why or why not?
our mediascape tables are dying after 5 years. Trying to figure out how to replace them
A1 I am constantly trying to figure out how to make more space from zero space
A1: I do not currently have a classroom, but have had to make classroom layouts that will best hold Ss attention
A1: Absolutely. Ss have choice to sit, lay, stand where they chose. Room design was WITH students and is always changing.
A1 Somedays yes and other days no. I have tried several configurations for Health class to find optimal engagement.
Hi ! Julie from consulting co in FL.
I teach Ts in PD sessions, so I'm often in a place not designed well. Many times, it's a classroom! Sad!
A1. I feel I try bc I allow students to create the room along with also having multiple functional areas
A1 Thinking most physical layouts in classrooms still very traditional. Works great for "desks in a row" teaching.
At times, but I think no classroom is 100% attention gaining. Different Ss require different strategies https://t.co/rQMmxlMvah
Q1: Do you feel your classroom is designed for maximum student attention? Why or why not?
I'm checking out the from Georgia tonight 👋🏾👋🏾
A1 your classroom should never reach maximum. There are always ways to improve your space
I'm always interested in having diff areas that work well for diff purposes.
A1 - My room is designed to encourage collaboration between students. It is flexible and transformable: https://t.co/h376LfYN6w
Giving Ss a choice, within the confines of the classroom, allows for more attention when necessary
A1: Spaces that promote social or collaborative learning
I have recently patented my idea for the DoubleDeckerDesk™. Coming soon to WB Mason.
A1 It works better now b/c I changd desk ordr, but could always use more space, especially w/larger classes
A1: Design is best I know & can do today. Tomorrow will be better as I continue to know more about my students and myself.
Hey everyone the great author is here. Hurrah
Hey everyone, I'm Mario, teach 6th grade ELA .
The human element can never be underestimated. Good Ts have ways to gain attention regardless of layout!
A1 I have three different set-ups based upon lesson for the day. 2 are collaborative and 1 for testing. Work in progress
Avoiding report cards - I have 9 more to do tonight! provides a great distraction! :)
Sounds like a great plan. I also always had a quiet, comfy reading area (and taught mostly HS).
A1:My class looks different all week. Community Circle layout, half and half blended model, 3 stations 20mins each, whole group.
A1. Classroom Environment is more than just about the space but also the feel such as safe to learn in https://t.co/9R5rNca0Jn
Space updates don't have t be expensive. Remember that when you receive your steelcase quote
Q2a: Are there parts of your classroom environment you have no control over?
Is it sad to say I look for alternate seating options on trash day? People throw out some good furniture.
Yes and knows how to 'blow up a room' to make the learning environment better!
Yes, and again, the person that the T is makes the environment feel safe and welcoming.
that room was a mess when we were done. I found crayons everywhere
A2a. Yes, I would like to hang more things from the ceiling but fire-marshal stops us.
classroom computer systems. They are university standard
A2a: I moved into a room with a foldable wall between classrooms. I built this & now it's not a problem! https://t.co/vQd9GiknqR
Does that affect the environment?
On the first day of school, we talk about what they want. I also have done a PBL as well with room design
FYI, great idea I've seen this yr: Each group has sm trash can, supply basket, etc. at group area. Eliminates wasted time
A2: Ts don't have control over limited space
Absolutely! Ss and classroom setup is not my choice. I cannot let these stop me from seeing Ss progress https://t.co/CF8wF7eS2C
Q2a: Are there parts of your classroom environment you have no control over?
A2a: Many times the white boards are unable to be moved.
A2a yes, thin walls/heating noise, make use of audio difficult, hard to hear Ss sometimes,
Do your school systems get fire marshals to inspect rms? Many places I go now - Ts can't have such sofas!
A1. All teachers want more classroom space! Round tables for collaboration & standing tables would be great too
I have switch to more open source software which means I need more plugs around for student laptops
Q2b coming up and already answered it for himself.
it was ok'd by the powers that be.
that is some serious sound suppression
Q2b: Is there a way to gain control over the things you mentioned?
I need more plugs as well.
A2: The dimensions of my class I have no control over but you adapt and create what fits your personality and your students.
Gloriann from 1st coming in late - listening to the owls in my backyard took priority! sorry!
I always say ask for forgiveness, not permission (just in case)
electricity is the new currency of education
I had to move rooms to pilot 21st century -now I have 5 outlets. I had outlets every 3 ft.
A2 we changed what we did in the classroom t work around it
I bought plug in strips and extension cords for each set of tables myself.
That will be my next step.
5 outlets total. Wow. Looks like they are trying to make you we stone tablets
We have Science Fair projects (all done in school), Passion Projects, PBL, etc. Projects everywhere!
So in order to do 21st ed you need more plugs and they moved you to a room with less?
A2b: Get ideas from others. Make it a game. "Love it or List it" classroom addition
A2b - We just try to store everything behind computers, inside file cabinets, under tables, etc. It's a mess, but it works!
that's awesome! Do students like them? Use them often?
Near field charging laptops can't get here fast enough
Sounds like the same problems, just with today's stuff
yeah, not happy. I asked for more. Got 1. ;/ I was told to specify.
good thing you didn't ask for a new door. They would have brought the door and not anything else
I have an awesome tech table with an outlet strip and monitor for teaching using Chromecast and Chromebooks. I use 5.
Communication between administration, IT and Ts is so important! https://t.co/S1lNq5sBQs
So in order to do 21st ed you need more plugs and they moved you to a room with less?
Q3: How do you keep your student's attention?
A3. Engagement and ownership
I doubt she could. Probably move the Neanderthal teacher in there to save electricity
A3: I'm mindful of their state of mind. For example, I have a class right after PE, I always factor that in my planning.
A3: One way is to have your lesson plans be as engaging as possible.
A3 Engaging lessons with hands on learning where Ss are able to self-direct will unlikely have attention issues.
A3: Engaging lessons tailored around their needs. Ensuring is valued and heard & building strong relationships with Ss
A3 Make them part of the learning process, create discussions that are relevant + content driven.
A3: My Ss "attend" to their work as they collaborate with others & complete tasks. I generally keep my talk time to a minimum.
A3: Student created options whenever possible
A3: Another thing I do is to check in with them. Ask how they are doing. Circulate the room while they are working. I don't sit.
A3 Try to be active, engaged, show interest in them as well, get their input, have fun activ, get them moving too
A3 engaged and active movement. LOTS of movement.
A3 What is the competition for Ss attn? Use that
I tell jokes too but some Die Hard.
I've added a TON of flipped lessons this year in 1st grade, & am having them create some of the lessons, too.
The other day I did a GHO on Air for a student at home. Ss in class watched on their computers. Didn't know what to think.
has become our best friend!
I'm interested in how to use movement but also support the content with the movement not just M for M's sake
A3 Create a variety of assignments. Some collaborative, some individual, + some all class. Don't stick w/ 1 too long.
A3. Ask questions and plan for class discussions - Focus on deep learning, not surface coverage
gonoodle, instead of turn in talk, I do "Walk and Talk"
What can 's role be in more movement?
Absolutely - I still see 80% or more of Qs in classrooms that are low level
Wow - flipped 1st grade - what does that look like?
Use QR codes located on different places for St to find throughout room.
That's pretty Fresh.....Prince
A3:Clear purpose for learning first. Collaboration, Differentiation, and accountability creates engagement in my classroom.
Q3a Anyone tried AR in class yet?
math lessons on video that I've taught, or I've found. Then we talk about ?s they have before diving into activities & workbook
Other than kids jumping up & down during Kahoot, I'm not sure... good Q!
So semi-flip, as they're not viewing at home.
I agree - still working on that!!!
Accelerated Reader? My Ss used to game it... fooled it regularly.
Ts can get caught up in asking ?s for content understanding as opposed to asking ?s for critical thinking, debate
Q4: Do you allow brain breaks or physical motion during your class? Why or why not?
I use a LOT, and my Ss love to blog with others. Seeing their writing brings their writing up.
A3a: Not sure which AR you mean...
- Augmented Reality, yes - with some struggles (Aurasma).
- Accelerated Reader, no.
A4: breaks are absolutely needed! Sometimes I have them "swim" 4 laps around the room.
A4: I definitely would allow short brain breaks! I even need them now in college so Ss definitely need them.
A4. YES, I also do them in PD's with teachers as well.
A4 - My students are "free to move about the cabin" all day long & spend most of the day working in groups all around the room.
A4:You need to, I know I enjoy breaks. Silent Ball is a favorite game of mine and my students.
A4: is brain break&physical motion tied together!Rejuvenates Ss,lets them get energy out which in turn increases focus
A4 Yes, both, should do it more, past wk had gallery walks in CR, Ss liked it a lot.
A4 Yes movement increases learning, Should avoid calling em brain breaks, we don't want to stop the learning. Sorry I teach PE
when having projects and collaborative work for Ss that incorporates movement with learning.
A4: we also have movement seating - wiggle chairs of many varieties.
adults need brain breaks, too! They just look a little different. :) https://t.co/3BdqISsqWi
A4: I definitely would allow short brain breaks! I even need them now in college so Ss definitely need them.
I agree - our brains should be fired up, excited, clicking away - NOT on a break!
so as a PE teacher, motion is constant right?
I'm having trouble w/my Ss working cooperatively. Argue, argue, argue!! Ugh. 1st graders harder this year than EVER. :(
Anyone else? Any great solutions? :)
Related to last Q, do any of you use fidget toys?
do they each have an assigned role for activities?
A4: I never thought about it that way https://t.co/G5O7kK7M0G
A4 Yes movement increases learning, Should avoid calling em brain breaks, we don't want to stop the learning. Sorry I teach PE
Almost. We do stop to analyze and evaluate. Hard to keep St moving for an hour and a half.
I did try that, and told them they would take turns with the jobs.
Jump into the conversation! :)
In the world we talk a lot about it :) Brain boosts is what we like to call em.
Ha, I used to do that same. Forgot that. Easy and cheap. How about koosh balls?
Maybe they could do some version of a plus delta as a way to reflect and set behavior goals https://t.co/bTd7RvPfHB
I'm having trouble w/my Ss working cooperatively. Argue, argue, argue!! Ugh. 1st graders harder this year than EVER. :(
Gr8 practice is to combine brain breaks with motion https://t.co/3HoXPz6thg
Q4: Do you allow brain breaks or physical motion during your class? Why or why not?
How about coloring books/pages?
I saw one school putting Velcro in desks to help kids.
w/1st grd the other day&feel for you w/ arguing!Noticed a task card&sticker labeling roles helped w/ redirecting
I will look at that! Thank you!
Love "brain boost" vs. "brain break." Getting the blood flowing is good for learning!
High school boys like to throw things so no balls.
Q5: How can you change your classroom environment in the next week to improve attention?
should add definately depends on the Ss & class...K-1 Ts wow me!
Hey thats what some of my ninth graders do the first week. Not used to HS yet!!
I did that last year! It was great for 1 kiddo!
I used cell phone vid cam during labs so Ss could record their materials gathering & procedure to keep focused.
love the term brain boosts!
A3 I create mini scavenger hunts around the classroom and students love it
A5 I am having more cabinets installed to hide stuff. Making the room a little neater
Sworkit is a great app to remember to get up and move. Don't want to sit too long.
A5: add center b/c Ss love to discuss topic,or creativity center w/no wrong projects as long as it supports a lesson
A5 Definitely some spring cleaning, change some posters, cleaning is key for this week
Q6 coming up on the heels of Q5
I re-arrange seats every 2 weeks. Time to think about the perimeter, though!
Q6: Have you thought of letting your students help design the learning environment? Why or why not?
Just be careful that doesn't throw off your groove. Some people work better in "mess"
I like that. Padlet is one of the easiest things to use and could stay active at a station much of the time.
A6 Yes, at beginning of yr, I set it up, asked for input, matters b/c they have to feel comfortable in envt.
. brain breaks and physical motion increases creativity and helps students refocus
A6:This is a great idea. I should make it a design thinking project for my students!
We nd to be sensitive to ourselves and Ss. Some Ss hate clutter, disorder, too.
is full of lots of ideas about differentiating tonight.
How do you balance Ss who hate disorder and Ss who seem to work better in it?
. brain breaks and physical motion increase creativity and help students refocus
I did a lot of that when I move to my new room, and need to do it again! :)
we are experiencing project build up
I've used it w/ older Ss a lot & last week we used it w/ K-1 & was surprised b/c they loved it!
after all, should we be giving the classroom back to students? It's their space.
Any ideas for an online class?
. teach from the back of the classroom and students will be on their toes
Maybe areas of the room catering to disorder such as a Lego wall?
I used to take lg paper boxes from T copy room, cover in Contac paper, use for storage
According to the article we are referencing tonight there is no front or back just multiple stages.
I have and will send it to my principal after our chat. In process of making school changes :)
Is screenbeam an app? Do Ss have to be on same wireless as projector?
Haven't ss already chose the best classroom for them. Could be their bed etc.
Q7: What is your takeaway from tonight? and Jill's topic up next.
Thanks for joining - Next weeks topic is: What IF........ - join us Sunday @ 8:00 PM EST.
A7: As a pre-service teacher I loved seeing how different strategies actually worked in a real classroom.
That is true, they are learning in their own space, is class synch/asynch?
A7 A lot of ideas and resources that I will take back to class.
. ScreenBeam is a small receiver box attached to a projector and doesn't require Wi-Fi. Want to try it?
A7 Every space can and should be a learning space. Thx for leading tonight.
A7 lots of strategies for CR setup,but we should get input from Ss, b/c we have the same space, good ideas shared here
Many kids don't have control of where they learn best bc home is chaotic.
I have the BEST PLN in the world! Use all of the space in your classroom for teaching.
There needs to be greater communication among the whole school community on how to best use/design space https://t.co/R97Wu8SxwV
Q7: What is your takeaway from tonight? and Jill's topic up next.
Mostly asynchronous; however, synchronous a few times a week.
Always a great discussion over at - thanks everyone! Especially !
Thanks for another great chat and I can't do it without you. See you next week for What IF...
PS if you are attending this week look me up
