ON CAMP US
by Dr. Megan Griffin
Creating a Collaborative Learning Environment W
hile my English Department colleagues and I joke that we could teach writing and literature anywhere – just give us a book, a pencil, and some paper – there is no doubt that the new building facilitates student learning in ways that are perhaps hard to quantify but easy to feel and experience on a daily basis. One-on-one writing conferences are an essential part of students’ growth as writers. With the new building, we now have plenty of locations to meet in comfortable, quiet spaces: conference rooms, lobby spaces, and even an outdoor dining space that makes for a refreshing al fresco chat about an essay. I don’t think any Ursuline English teacher underestimates the value of having this increase in the number and types of conference spaces; prior to the new building, we were sitting or standing in hallways and jockeying for an empty room, none of which was conducive to an effective conference.
Walking into the natural light and the open spaces of East Campus immediately lifts my spirits, energizing me and inspiring me to be the best version of myself; the space is a gift that reminds me how much we value our students.
The extra gathering spaces scattered throughout the hallways also provide places for students to meet in collaborative groups during class. In our English classes, for example, we often have lit circles or book clubs, which are essentially student-driven discussions of texts they have chosen.
Kirsten Hudak – Forensics Class Forensics Science class is a simulated work experience. As a vocational lab, the space is set up so that shelves give student access, the desks and chairs are all movable, and I can make the classroom what I want it to be. There are so many student-friendly spaces throughout the room and the natural light makes for a happy space. The whiteboard wall invites them to engage, which is what a TEAL classroom is. The “AL,” Active Learning, gets students up and moving!
Students and teachers meeting in the collaboration areas for discussions.
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LOGOS MAGAZINE 2022
