Adults have a lifetime of learning experiences some life changing... good or bad. Mine have instilled a powerful desire to provide a safe positive environment for myself and others.
My granddaughter and I attended a series of basic photography workshops facilitated by Eiko Jones an accomplished photographer from our community. National Geographic publishes his work. This might make some feel uncomfortable should they be comparing their abilities to his. Not knowing Eiko I was not sure of what to expect and was pleased at what transpired.
He provided directions and a pre-readng for the outdoor session which my granddaughter would read out loud as we travelled to the location. Both happy to have the time to ponder and get the concept before arriving.
The group gathered and Eiko welcomed us. Once all settled he would begin with an overview and demonstration. Learners were not singled out or made to feel bad if their homework wasn't done. Questions and requests for help invited. Then out on the trail we went to experiment.
Eiko checked in with learners individually or in groups to troubleshoot how the session objective could be achieved using their particular cameras. Sharing technical aspects and creative tips.
As the session drew to a close everyone was gathered to review what we learnt and answer any questions. Details of the next sessions topic and location provided. My impression was that everyone enjoyed the lesson, grasped the learning objectives, and looked forward to next weeks session. My granddaughter remarked how great it was to be learning something she wanted to learn!
Eiko provided a safe and positive learning environment ---question is--- how specifically did he do that? Dan Boudreau tells us ten ways to create the ideal learning environment in his great article posted in www.TrainerHub.com:
1. Lead with a positive attitude
2. Establish an emotionally safe and friendly learning environment
3. Teach topics that are interesting to you
4. Focus on the learner
5. Build trust
6. Create learning adventures
7. Encourage supportiveness
8. Appeal to a variety of senses, aromas, visuals, nature sounds...
9. Use learning circles
10. Use music (# 10 was replaced with a beach fire)
I would say Eiko's workshops demonstrate an ideal learning environments!
References:
Boudreau, Dan. (2012) Creating the Ideal Learning Environment: Emotional. Retrieved from http://trainerhub.com/creating-the-ideal-learning-environment-emotional/ June 3, 2016
Boyd, C. (1995) Music and Learning: Integrating Music in the Classroom in John Hopkins School of Education. New Horizons for Learning. Retrieved from http://education.jhu.edu/PD/newhorizons/strategies/topics/Arts%20in%20Education/brewer.htm
June 3, 2016
Clapper, T. C. (2010). Creating the safe learning environment. PAILAL, 3(2), 1-6. http://www.academia.edu/1180264/Creating_the_safe_learning_environment
Jones, E. Retrieved from eiko jones cloud of tadpoles June 3, 2016
Senger, N. (2007) 85 Positive Songs for Teachers to use in the Classroom. Teen Literacy Tips. Retrieved from http://www.nicksenger.com/blog/85-positive-songs-for-teachers-to-use-in-the-classroom June 3, 2016
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