What Happens When a Classroom is not Set Up for Easy Monitoring?

What Happens When a Classroom is not Set Up for Easy Monitoring?

When teachers do not set up their classrooms for easy monitoring throughout the day their classroom is not an orderly space that increases predictability and safety for students and the teaching team. 

Teachers cannot see and hear all students in all parts of the classroom. They cannot move around the classroom with ease to engage students in learning and to redirect or reinforce student behaviour. 

The Problem is Compounded 

The classroom set-up does not support the activities of the school day. The teacher does not use materials and furniture to minimise crowding and distractions. They do not engage students as effectively because they are standing in one spot, usually in front of the room, or students are engaged with their friends. 

By not having clear routes for the student and teacher, movement is slow, awkward and unsafe. Access to resources in the classroom takes more time and the focus is not on learning.