Physical Environment

The physical
environment of the classroom is talking about the way a classroom is set up.  Some of the key
elements are accessibility, visibility, and distractability.

The materials in
the room should be accessible to the students as needed.  The students should know where
supplies are and be able to access them.  Also, part of having an accessible environment is
having the furniture arranged so that the teacher and students can easily move about the
classroom.  The teacher should be able to easily access all students in order to solve a
discipline problem or help with an assignment.

Visibility refers to the
students' ability to see the teacher, board, projections screen, etc.  When arranging the desks,
the teacher should sit in the desks to ensure that students will be able to see.  Also, the
teacher should be able  to see the students at all times.  Students shouldn't be hidden behind a
bookcase or filing cabinet.  During small group instruction, the teacher should be positioned so
that he or she can see all the students.

Distractability refers to the
inherent distractions of a classroom.  Things such as pencil sharpeners, windows, doors, trash
cans, etc. can cause distractions to some students.  The teacher should take into account the
individual students when creating a seating arrangement in order to accommodate for students who
may become distracted.