AUTHOR: Conner, Lindsey, Sliwka, Anne.

TITLE: Implications of Research on Effective Learning Environments for Initial Teacher Education.
PUBLISHER: Wiley Blackwell
YEAR: 2014
Reviewer: Rafael Miravete, National University TED 690
Overview:
This article talks about having a classroom environment that promotes student learning. Its key concept
is understanding that students are the key components and thus should actively participate in class.
Cooperative learning is sought based on environmental information, and the motivation is set by the
teacher knowing his/her students. According to the article, all of the afore-mentioned principles should
be present to constitute a positive learning environment. The article also expresses that teachers should
put the theory into practice so that students can visually see what the material that is being presented
looks like.

Critical Evaluation:
Teach by example is a great way to earn student trust when teaching a foreign language. I apply key
components into my classroom by providing as many examples as I can as well as providing visual
models. I hold my students responsible for their work and their participation even if their knowledge is
not 100% accurate; I do provide examples that lead them to the correct answer. I take my time to know
my students, perhaps not at a profound level, but enough where its comfortable and provide
information that will motivate them in general. My walls are adorned with material that is 100%
authentic and promotes interest based on students personal taste.