AY 2023-2024

College of Teacher Education

LEARNING EPISODE 1: The School Environment

This episode provides an opportunity for you to examine and reflect on a school environment that
promotes learning and development.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this episode, you must be able to determine that characteristics of a school that is safe,
secure, and is supportive of learning (PPST 2.1.1)

ACTIVITY 1.1 EXPLORING THE SCHOOL CAMPUS

Resource Teacher: Teacher’s Signature: School:

Year level: Subject Area: Date:

1. Visit a school. Look into facilities and support learning areas in the school, then in the
classroom.
2. Observe and use the checklist as you move around the school premises.
3. Analyze your gather data about the school environment;
4. Reflect on the characteristics of a school environment that promotes learning;

SCHOOL FACILITIES OBSERVATION CHECKLIST

Familiarize yourself with the different areas and facilities of the school. Check the column to indicate
their availability. Give a brief description of those that are available, and say how each will contribute
to the students’ learning and development.

Facilities / Description Will it contribute to

the students’ learning
and development?
Why?
An essential area in a school for It helps because every session
carrying out administrative duties, the head of the school offers its
Office of the Principal making decisions, and exercising clients includes lifelong learning
/ leadership is the principal's office. from this office.

A library is a place or establishment Since they will be learning at

that holds collections of books and their own pace, kids will build
/ other materials that are arranged and self-learning strategies in the
Library
kept up to date for people to use for a library.
variety of activities, like reading.
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Facilities / Description Will it contribute to
the students’ learning
and development?
Why?
A counseling room is a special Counseling rooms offer students a
location created to offer a cozy and private, secure setting in which to
Counseling Room / encouraging setting for therapeutic communicate their feelings,
discussions between a client and a worries, and difficulties. Students
counselor or therapist. who have access to a supportive
counselor can benefit from advice,
affirmation, and understanding, all
of which can enhance their mental
health.
In a cafeteria, patrons help By reiterating teachings on
themselves by selecting their nutrition and healthy eating, the
preferred meal items from a display canteen can function as an
Canteen/Cafeteria
/ counter. They are free to choose from extension of the classroom. It
a wide range of options according to gives students a chance to put
their dietary requirements and their understanding of portion
preferences. sizes and healthful food choices to
use in a practical context.
Numerous services pertaining to Students can gain invaluable
health are provided by medical practical clinical experience in a
Medical Clinic clinics. Preventive care, regular medical clinic. It enables people
/ medical checkups, and disease and to engage with patients, see and
injury treatment are examples of take part in actual medical
these services. situations, and pick up knowledge
from medical experts. Students
are able to close the knowledge
gap between theory and practice
in a clinical setting with the aid of
this hands-on experience.
Students are to be given access to a Students can access a variety of
dynamic learning environment that educational resources, such as
integrates a variety of audiovisual software, books, journals, online
Audio Visual/
/ resources through an AV/LRC. By databases, audiovisual materials,
Learning Resource
providing technology, multimedia and software, at an
Center
resources, and learning aids that audiovisual/learning resource
improve comprehension and center. By providing a variety of
engagement, it seeks to complement learning opportunities and
and enhance traditional classroom accommodating various learning
instruction. preferences, these tools enable
students to interact more deeply
and interactively with the
material.
A science laboratory is intended to Inquiry-based learning, in which
offer a specific area for scientific students actively study and
Science Laboratory research and exploration. It acts as a investigate scientific phenomena,
/ center for carrying out research, is frequently encouraged in
evaluating information, and science labs. By promoting
expanding understanding across a curiosity, independent thought,
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range of scientific fields, including and the capacity to develop and
physics, biology, chemistry, and evaluate hypotheses, this method
more. helps students grasp scientific
ideas on a deeper level.
A gymnasium is intended to offer a Students can engage in physical
specific area for sports, exercise, and activity at gyms, which enhances
physical fitness. It provides a safe their general health and fitness.
Gymnasium
/ space for people to exercise in a Frequent exercise has been
variety of ways, including demonstrated to enhance
weightlifting, aerobic exercises, academic achievement, focus, and
group fitness programs, and sports cognitive function.
like volleyball, basketball, and
boxing.
An auditorium is meant to be a Many learners experience the
comfortable place for spectators to performing arts for the first time
Auditorium view and listen to presentations or in the theater, both as performers
/ plays. It acts as a hub for social and as viewers. As a result, it's
interaction and the exchange of critical to create an environment
creative, cultural, and educational that is pleasing for both
experiences. performers and viewers, versatile
in terms of art, and simple to use.
A typical element of outdoor gardens Students can learn firsthand and
are flower beds, which display an experientially in outdoor gardens.
Outdoor/Garden assortment of vibrant blooms and Planting, caring for, and
/ decorative plants. These beds harvesting plants is one of the
frequently have eye-catching designs activities they can partake in to
or combinations that enhance the help students comprehend
garden's attractiveness and aroma. biology, ecology, and
environmental science principles.

Facilities / Description Will it contribute to

Home Economics Room
/ sinks can be found in the home
Industrial Workshop Area
/ furnished with equipment,
the students’ learning
and development?
Why?
A well-appointed kitchen space with Home economics classrooms
many workstations furnished with incorporate a variety of topics and
kitchen appliances such stoves, specializations, including food,
ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, and money management, apparel and
textiles, and housing and shelter.
economics room. Students can Students study important
practice and learn different cooking everyday issues critically and
methods, meal preparation, and food discover how their choices affect
safety at these facilities. society, their families, and
themselves.
Workstations and Equipment: A Industrial workshop spaces give
typical industrial workshop area students a place to put the
consists of a number of workstations theoretical knowledge they learn
in the classroom to use in practical
machinery, and specialized tools situations. Pupils can work on
related to particular crafts or projects, experiments, and hands-
expertise. Workbenches, hand and on activities that improve their
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College of Teacher Education
power tools, welding supplies, conceptual understanding and
metalworking and woodworking sharpen their problem-solving
equipment, and more may be among abilities.
them.
PTA members have a dedicated Parental involvement in school
workspace at the office where they activities and decision-making
PTA Office may hold meetings, plan activities, processes is encouraged and
and handle administrative duties. supported by PTAs. Students
Desks, seats, laptops, and other benefit from having involved and
essential office supplies might be involved parents because it fosters
/ included. a helpful and upbeat learning
atmosphere. Higher levels of
parental participation are
associated with greater attendance
rates, higher academic
achievement, and fewer
behavioral problems in students.
Boys can enjoy peace and quiet in the The comfort room is intended to
comfort room, which is a peaceful give students a relaxing and
/ area. They can let go of the garbage tranquil space. It provides a place
Comfort Room for Boys
they've accumulated throughout the that students can go to when
day in the urinals and toilets. they're feeling worried,
overburdened, or anxious.
The comfort room provides a quiet The comfort room supports
space where girls can find solitude students' overall well-being and
Comfort Room for Girls / and serenity. It has toilets and urinals mental health. It provides a space
where they can discharge their wastes where students can take a break,
accumulated for the day. relax, and recharge.

Others:
(Please specify)
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An Observation Guide for the CLASSROOM VISIT

Read the following statements carefully. Then write your observation report on the space
provided.

Guide Question Classroom Observation Report

1. Describe the The community where the school was located is a community
community or where people harmoniously lived and creates a very inclusive and
neighborhood where the welcoming environment. The place values well-being and
school is found. happiness.

The school campus invites a very positive vibe imbibing pleasant

2. Describe the school
school environment. The colors are the usual colors of DepEd
campus. What colors do
classrooms where pale yellow and green is everywhere. The
you see? What is the
buildings are just fine and some are newly built resilient to
condition of the
typhoons and other calamities.
buildings?

3. Pass by the offices. The offices attracts visitors and the staffs are very welcoming.
What impression do
you have of these
offices?

The school has adequate facilities to cater the learners,

4. Walk through the
stakeholders and other spectators who may come to the school.
school halls, the
library, the cafeteria,
look around and find
out the other facilities
that the school has.

5. Look at the walls of the It posted the Vision, Mission and core values of DepEd that
classroom. What is reminds every learner of the department goals for its people in the
posted on the walls? future. Other posters are values driven quote that poses
motivational drive to our learners.
6. Examine how the pieces The furnitures are arranged strategically so that it will maximized
the learning outcome, the teacher’s table are at the center back of
of furniture are
arranged. Where is the the room. There are no tables aside from the Teacher’s table,
teacher’s table located? instead there were armchairs for the learners.
How are the tables and
chairs desks arranged?
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Analyze

1. How does the school campus and the classroom in particular impact the learning of the
students going to school? What are your conclusions?
A clean, well-maintained, and pleasant-smelling campus can create a conducive environment for learning,
while a noisy or unpleasant-smelling environment may hinder students' focus and interest The physical
environment of the classroom, including factors such as seating, lighting, noise levels, and color, can affect
students' learning ability. A positive learning environment, with comfortable seating, appropriate lighting, minimal
distractions, and a visually appealing atmosphere, has been shown to enhance students' motivation and engagement.

2. How does this relate to your knowledge of child and adolescent development/ How does this
relate to your knowledge of facilitating learning?

A conducive class environment suitable for learning improves child and adolescent development in terms of
mental, physical, and social well- being. And it was known that learning will actually take place if the
environment is not threatening and fosters a positive atmosphere. Learners are more motivated to learn and
share their experiences and learning if they feel more secure and comfortable.

Reflect

1. Would you like to teach in the school environment you just observed? Why? Why not?

I think YES, because as what I have observed aside from the learners comfy and cozy feeling, the
teachers are motivated to teach also since they have a very attractive campus, and they treat each other
like a family. A positive and non-threatening environment inspires teachers to work well.

2. What kind of school campus is conducive to learning?

The physical environment of the campus, including classrooms, should be clean, well-
maintained, and organized. It should have adequate lighting, ventilation, and comfortable seating
arrangements to promote a positive learning atmosphere. A conducive school campus ensures the
safety and security of students. It should be fully fenced and away from external noise sources like busy
roads or construction sites This creates a sense of security and allows students to focus on their studies
without distractions or concerns.

3. What kind of classroom is conducive to learning?

A conducive classroom environment is essential for effective learning. A conducive learning
environment includes ventilation, there is proper lighting, well-fixed armchairs, clean and free
from any noise. And most importantly, the classroom facilitator is not threatening and delivers
the class instructions well, he/she promotes positive vibes with fairness and inclusivity.

4. In the future, how can you accomplish your answer in number 3?

In the future I can accomplish a classroom which is conducive to learning through proper
Education which I will be acquiring while I’m here in the university.
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An observation Guide for Board Displays

Read the following carefully before you observe
1. Go around the school and examine the board displays? How many board displays
do you see?
2. Where are the display boards found? Are they in places where target viewers can
see them?
3. What are the displays about? What key messages do they convey? What images
and colors do you see? How are the pieces of information and images arranged?
4. What materials were used in making the displays? Are borders used?
5. Do you notice some errors? (Misspelled words? Grammar inconsistencies and
the like?
6. Are the messages clear and easily understood?
7. Think about what got your attention. Why did it get your attention?
8. Take photos of the display boards? (If allowed)
Base on the questions on the observation guide, write your observation report:

Observation Report
(You may paste pictures of the board displays
here)
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Analyze

1. What do you think was the purpose of the board display?

Board display play a vital role in the school because its purpose is to provide an information for the
students like the upcoming events, students work and announcements. By doing this, the learners will gain
knowledge and be able to take part in the school's programming.
2. Did the board display design reflect the likes/interests of its target audience? Why? Why not?

YES, because board display design are colorful and organized and as a result, learners are motivated to
look and read. Their insatiable curiosity drives them to read more and comprehend it, which shapes
their critical thinking abilities.

3. Was the language used clear and simple for the target audience to understand? Why?
Why not?
YES, as I observed the the vocabulary chosen is appropriate for students to grasp.

4. Was the board display effective? Why? Why not?

YES, because through board display the school can inform the learners on the various information that
they need to know.

5. What suggestions can you make?

The words used must appropriate and capture the students’ interest so that they are more enticing to
read and participate.

Based on your suggestions, propose an enhanced version of the display board. Use the form below.

Theme: Minimalist Style that Captures every detail of the Information.

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Board Title: “Explore & Learn: Your Guide to Real Information

Rationale:
A well-designed bulletin board can serve as a valuable educational tool,
providing information, showcasing student work, and reinforcing key concepts. It can
also contribute to the overall aesthetics of the classroom, making it a more inviting
and inspiring space for students.

Objectives:
 To provide information: The bulletin board can be used to display
important information related to the subject being taught, such as key
vocabulary words, formulas, or historical events. The objective could be to
ensure that the information is clearly presented and easily accessible to
students.
 To showcase student work: The bulletin board can be used to display
exemplary student work, such as artwork, essays, or science projects. The
objective could be to regularly update the board with new student work and
create a sense of pride and accomplishment among students.
 To reinforce learning: The bulletin board can be used to reinforce key
concepts or skills through visual aids, diagrams, or interactive elements. The
objective could be to create a board that actively engages students and
helps them review and apply what they have learned.
 To create a welcoming environment: The bulletin board can be used to
create a visually appealing and welcoming environment in the classroom.
The objective could be to design a board that reflects the interests and
diversity of the students and makes them feel valued and included.
Best features of my proposed bulletin enhancement:
 Colorful and eye-catching design: Using vibrant colors, interesting accents,
and blow-up letters can make the bulletin board visually appealing and
attention-grabbing.
 Student involvement: Involving students in the bulletin board creation
process can foster a sense of ownership and engagement. Students can
contribute their own work or collections related to the subject being studied
 Clear and organized layout: Ensuring that the information on the bulletin
board is presented in a clear and organized manner can make it easier for
students to understand and navigate the content.
 Aesthetic enhancements: Using materials like scratch papers, water paint,
and other recycling materials can add an aesthetic touch to the bulletin
board .
Content Resources (Name each needed resource and give each a brief description):
 Bulletin board sets: Teacher Created Resources offers a variety of classroom
bulletin board sets with different themes, such as superheroes, chalkboard
brights, and polka dots.
 Creative ideas: The '35 Best Bulletin Board Ideas for Classroom' article
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provides a list of creative bulletin board ideas, including beach-themed,
popsicle-themed, and fish-themed boards.
 Accents and decorations: Party supplies like tassels, crepe paper rolls,
balloons, and other fun decorations can be used to add interesting accents
to the bulletin board
Materials for aesthetic enhancement:
 Carton: Carton from a balikbayan box can be used as a base for the bulletin
board
 Scratch papers: Scratch papers can be used for creating colorful designs or
backgrounds.
 Water paint/poster paint: Water paint or poster paint can be used to add
vibrant colors to the bulletin board.
 Recycling materials: Various recycling materials, such as cardboard, fabric
scraps, or bottle caps, can be repurposed to create unique and eco-friendly
elements for the bulletin board.

Reflect

1. Name at least five skills that a teacher should have to be able to come up with effective
board displays. elaborate on why each skill is needed?

Creative- By being creative you can easily attract your target audience and they will be more enticed to look and read.
Collaborative- must know how to get along with a co-teacher/worker to make work easier and share different ideas
that can improve work.
Communication- Good communication skills will result in the orderly and clear delivery of the message.
Critical Thinker- Critical thinking skills are essential for teachers because they allow them to evaluate many
viewpoints, examine data, and make better judgments.
Conductor- ability to successfully plan and organized the board displays.