When I am asked to reflect on my classroom, in a face-to-face setting, a strong passion within me arises! Being an artist, I desire to create a classroom that is visually appealing. Using my knowledge of color and light to create an atmosphere that is safe. welcoming, and fun. Most people are aware of the stereotype that artists are messy and can survive in chaos. I DO NOT fall into that stereotype. Everything has a place and a purpose. Classroom design takes time and thought. Everything has to be on “purpose” and flexible to change. Every day, every hour, my students create something different. Students work at different paces. Scale and medium may vary. Some students may be working on something miniature, while other students are working on something so large that it requires them to extend the classroom into the hallway. It is for this very reason that students must have a clear understanding of classroom culture and expectations to avoid any disciplinary issues.
My classroom is a fluid environment. Students do a scavenger hunt the first day of class to learn the location of tools and supplies. The classroom culture is one of self ownership of learning and motivation. Students are responsible to return materials, clean up their work area, and safely store their artwork. Each time a new assignment is introduced, I provide a demonstration and post the rubric both in class and on our class website for reference. When assignments are completed we enjoy critiquing the works using the Four Steps of Art Criticism and employ the Elements of Art and Principles of Design into our discussions.Routines are established and respected. Tables, chairs, and counters are all fluid. Layout may change at anytime, for any purpose. For the sake of organization, materials and tool locations remain the same. I could go on and on, but the main mantra is to make sure the layout fits the project and students needs. These images, all my own with permission to use, exemplify my point that the classroom must be like a chameleon.
Students love being in my classroom. They know they are welcome, through their innate intelligence, with the atmosphere that was purposely created for THEM!!!
Keep your students needs in mind!!
Stephanie, your post takes me back to days when we were not allowed to color outside the lines! Years later in college I learned my doodles on the perimeter of the page were often the most thought provoken take-aways from a class and yet I dared color outside the lines. You have a very structured, highly organized classroom above, that adapts to the changing needs of the classroom for a specific project. It takes the investment of time and effort to establish that classroom environment.