Sarah Viviani ECED 103.

001 October 3, 2011 Article Review #2 Title and Author Basic Premises of Classroom Design: The Teachers Perspective by Terri Jo Swim, Ph.D. Main Idea The main idea of the article Basic Premises of Classroom Design is that the classrooms physical environment needs to be conducive to childrens learning and development. The layout and materials offered make a difference in the classrooms operation for both the students and the teacher. Integration As discussed in Chapter 6 of the textbook, the classroom environment affects the development, behavior and learning of every child. It matters what types of materials are offered. They need to meet the learning needs of each child as well as promote independence (Jalongo & Isenberg, 2008). When classrooms are organized into learning centers, the necessities for a classroom environment are met. Materials are prearranged so that they relate to each particular area. Children recognize that different types of behavior are required in different centers. They are able to work on things independently and focus on discovering one specific subject at a time.

When I completed my observation hour focusing on classroom environment, I noticed that the classroom was divided into learning centers. These centers were utilized by the children according to their pre-determined purposes. The childrens behavior changed as they moved from center to center. They knew that they had to sit quietly when working on a puzzle at the tables. Conversely, they realized that they could be a little louder when playing in the block center. The materials found in the classroom in which I observed seemed to be carefully chosen and placed. Each section of the classroom was inviting for the children and presented many learning opportunities. The science center included a sand/water table that contained different materials to learn about science. The quiet area contained puzzles and boxes of table toys that could engage the children in imaginative play, math, and other academic areas. The reading center had not only books, but different kinds of charts. Personal Reflection I will be able to utilize the ideas from this article in my own classroom in various ways. The importance of the classrooms layout in addition to the materials offered has struck me after reading this article as well as the textbook. I love the idea of learning centers and allowing the children to have easy access to those centers. I want to give my students the opportunity for choice and make them feel as comfortable in their environment as possible. Allowing my students to manipulate their environment and discover new things is also very important to me. I will take what I have learned through these readings as well as my observations and put them to use when planning my classroom.

Discussion Question What are some things that you plan to include in your own classroom someday?

Reference Jalongo, M. R. & Isenberg, J.P. (2008). Exploring your role: An introduction to early childhood education. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.